Using Be Going To, Will, Present Continuous for the Future – Easy to Understand Quickly!

Welcome to the future world of English!

Have you ever been confused when choosing between “be going to”, “will”, and “present continuous” when talking about the future? Don’t worry, today, I will help you understand how to use them to be more confident in communication. These are super powerful “weapons” for you to talk about plans, predictions, or upcoming events. Let’s explore!

Three “stars” of the future

1. Be Going To – The plan is ready

Use “be going to” when you have a specific plan or see clear signs for the future.

• For example: “I am going to visit my grandparents this weekend.”

• Tips: Think of it as if you were talking about a booked trip!

2. Will – Predict or decide right then and there

“Will” appears when you make a prediction (based on opinion) or a snap decision.

• For example: “It will rain this afternoon.” (I guess it will rain this afternoon.)

• Example 2: “Oh, I will help you with that!”

• Tips: Imagine you are “precognitive” or reacting quickly!

3. Present Continuous – Plans about to happen

Use “present continuous” when talking about an event that has been arranged, usually with a specific schedule.

• For example: “We are meeting our teacher at 2 PM today.”

• Tips: This is how you talk about plans that are “locked” in your calendar!

Quick comparison to avoid confusion

• Be going to: Personal plan, with clear intentions (I have prepared).

• Will: A sudden (unplanned) prediction or decision.

• Present Continuous: Scheduled event (has a fixed time).
  For example: “I am going to learn cooking”, “I will cook dinner if you're tired”, “I am cooking at 6 PM”.

Practice today!

Try incorporating these three into your daily life. For example, this morning you could say, “I am going to finish my homework,” “It will be a busy day,” or “I am meeting a friend later.” The more you practice, the more familiar you will become!

Question for you:

Have you tried using “be going to”, “will”, or “present continuous” in any sentences? Share with me!
Please contact Chau Thanh Foreign Language Center to register for the course.