Future Forms in English for IELTS Band 6: The Ultimate Guide to “Will,” “Going to,” and Present Continuous for the Future

Introduction: Why Mastering Future Forms Matters for IELTS Band 6

Mastering future forms—will, going to, and present continuous for the future—is a vital step for every IELTS candidate aiming for Band 6 and above. These structures are frequently used in IELTS Speaking and Writing tasks, where you are asked to make predictions, describe future plans, discuss intentions, or talk about scheduled events. Knowing when and how to use these forms naturally and accurately can boost both your fluency and grammatical range—two major factors in IELTS assessment.

What you’ll learn in this guide:
  • Clear explanations tailored to Band 6 level.
  • All grammar rules, exceptions, and common usage patterns.
  • Over 20 real-life and exam-specific examples.
  • Strategies, tips, error correction, and advanced practice.
  • Exercises with answers and detailed explanations.
  • A practical self-assessment checklist and study plan.

By the end, you will be able to confidently use all future forms in both your IELTS speaking and writing, and understand how to avoid the most frequent mistakes at Band 6.
Let’s get started!

Understanding the IELTS Band 6 Requirements for Future Forms

IELTS Band 6 descriptors emphasize the ability to use a mix of basic and some complex grammar, though with occasional errors. For future forms, this means:

  • Using “will”, “going to”, and present continuous accurately in context.
  • Showing you can talk about your plans, intentions, predictions, and scheduled events.
  • Being able to choose the right form for the right situation (not just repeating “will”).
  • Showing some flexibility and awareness of grammar rules, even if your control isn’t perfect.
In IELTS Speaking, you may be asked:
  • “What are your plans for the weekend?”
  • “How do you think technology will change our lives in the future?”
  • “Are you going to study or work after graduation?”
In IELTS Writing Task 1 and 2, you may need to:
  • Predict trends (“The number of students will increase…”)
  • State plans or intentions (“I am going to discuss the main reasons…”)
Using the correct future form demonstrates the grammatical accuracy, flexibility, and range required for Band 6.

Section 1: Overview of English Future Forms

What Are Future Forms?

In English, we use different grammar structures to talk about the future. The most important at Band 6 are:

  • Will (future simple)
  • Going to (future intention/prediction)
  • Present Continuous (for arranged future plans)
  • [Bonus: Present Simple for timetabled events]

Each has specific uses, forms, and meanings. Mastering the differences is key for IELTS success.

Section 2: The “Will” Future (Future Simple)

2.1. The Structure of “Will”
  • Affirmative: Subject + will + base verb
    I will travel to London.
  • Negative: Subject + will not (won’t) + base verb
    I will not (won’t) eat dinner late.
  • Question: Will + subject + base verb?
    Will you join us?
2.2. When to Use “Will”
  • Predictions (not based on current evidence):
    “I think it will rain tomorrow.”
  • Decisions made at the moment of speaking:
    “Someone’s at the door. I’ll answer it.”
  • Promises and offers:
    “I’ll help you with your homework.”
  • Future facts or things you believe to be true:
    “Robots will help people in the future.”
2.3. Examples in IELTS Context
  • IELTS Speaking Part 1:
    Q: “How do you usually spend your weekends?”
    A: “I think I will relax at home this weekend.”
  • IELTS Speaking Part 2:
    “Describe a technology you think will change the world.”
  • IELTS Writing Task 2:
    “This essay will discuss the reasons for pollution in big cities.”
2.4. Common Mistakes with “Will” (and How to Avoid Them)
Incorrect: “I will going to visit my uncle.”
Correct: “I will visit my uncle.” / “I am going to visit my uncle.”
Tip: Never use “will” with “going to”.

Section 3: The “Going to” Future

3.1. The Structure of “Going to”
  • Affirmative: Subject + am/is/are + going to + base verb
    I am going to watch a movie.
  • Negative: Subject + am/is/are + not + going to + base verb
    She isn’t going to study tonight.
  • Question: Am/Is/Are + subject + going to + base verb?
    Are you going to visit your parents?
3.2. When to Use “Going to”
  • Planned future actions (intentions):
    “I’m going to apply for a job after graduation.”
  • Predictions based on current evidence:
    (Looking at dark clouds) “It’s going to rain.”
3.3. Examples in IELTS Context
  • IELTS Speaking Part 1:
    Q: “What are you going to do after this course?”
    A: “I’m going to look for a job in my field.”
  • IELTS Speaking Part 2:
    “Describe a trip you are going to take in the future.”
  • IELTS Writing Task 2:
    “In this essay, I am going to examine the pros and cons of online shopping.”
3.4. Common Mistakes with “Going to”
Incorrect: “I going to visit my uncle.”
Correct: “I am going to visit my uncle.”
Tip: Always include the correct form of “be” (am/is/are).

Section 4: Present Continuous for the Future

4.1. The Structure of Present Continuous for Future
  • Subject + am/is/are + verb-ing
    I am meeting my friend at 6 p.m.
4.2. When to Use Present Continuous for the Future
  • Arrangements with other people (fixed plans with time/date):
    “I am meeting my doctor tomorrow.”
  • Plans that are confirmed:
    “We are moving house next month.”
4.3. Examples in IELTS Context
  • IELTS Speaking Part 1:
    Q: “Do you have any plans for the evening?”
    A: “Yes, I’m meeting some friends after class.”
  • IELTS Speaking Part 2:
    “Describe an event you are attending soon.”
  • IELTS Writing Task 1/2:
    “Next year, the government is launching a new program.”
4.4. Common Mistakes with Present Continuous
Incorrect: “I meeting my friend at 6.”
Correct: “I am meeting my friend at 6.”
Tip: Always use am/is/are with “-ing” verb.

Section 5: Present Simple for Scheduled Events (Bonus Tip)

Present simple is sometimes used for timetabled or scheduled events, often related to transportation or public schedules.

  • “My train leaves at 8 o’clock.”
  • “The conference starts on Monday.”

Section 6: Choosing the Right Future Form

Knowing when to use each form is essential for fluency and accuracy in IELTS. Here’s a quick comparison:

Situation Use Example
Prediction (no evidence) will I think it will snow.
Prediction (with evidence) going to Look at those clouds! It’s going to rain.
Instant decision will I’ll call her now.
Promise/Offer will I’ll help you.
Plan/intention (before speaking) going to I’m going to study medicine.
Fixed arrangement (with others) present continuous I’m meeting my tutor tomorrow.
Timetabled event present simple The bus leaves at 9.

Section 7: 20+ Real-Life and IELTS Usage Situations

Let’s explore real usage with practical IELTS and real-life scenarios.

  • 1. Making Predictions
    “I think it will rain tomorrow.”
    “People will use electric cars more in the future.”
  • 2. Talking About Future Plans
    “I am going to visit my uncle next weekend.”
    “We are going to start a new project soon.”
  • 3. Describing Arrangements
    “I am meeting my friend at 6 p.m.”
    “We’re having a party on Saturday.”
  • 4. Talking About Your Hopes
    “I hope I will get a good score.”
    “Hopefully, I will pass my IELTS exam.”
  • 5. Making Promises
    “I will help you with your homework.”
    “Don’t worry, I’ll call you as soon as I arrive.”
  • 6. Describing Future Events
    “My birthday party is going to be next week.”
    “The concert is taking place on Friday.”
  • 7. Talking About Intentions
    “I’m going to study medicine.”
    “We are going to learn a new language.”
  • 8. Making Offers
    “I’ll open the window.”
    “I’ll get you some water.”
  • 9. Talking About Ambitions
    “In the future, I will travel a lot.”
    “I will work for an international company.”
  • 10. Describing Timetabled Events
    “My train leaves at 8 o’clock.”
    “The meeting starts at 10 a.m.”
  • 11. Talking About Family Plans
    “We’re going to move house.”
    “My sister is getting married next year.”
  • 12. Talking About Next Steps
    “I’m going to apply for a job.”
    “After this course, I’m going to continue my studies.”
  • 13. Making Quick Decisions
    “Someone’s at the door! I’ll answer it.”
    “I forgot my umbrella! I’ll borrow one.”
  • 14. Predicting Technology
    “Robots will help people in the future.”
    “AI will change the way we work.”
  • 15. Discussing Career Plans
    “I’m going to become a teacher.”
    “My friend is going to work abroad.”
  • 16. Stating Immediate Intentions
    “I’m going to start my homework now.”
    “I’m going to call my parents tonight.”
  • 17. Arrangements with Friends
    “I’m meeting Sarah after class.”
    “We’re having lunch with our teacher.”
  • 18. Describing Scheduled Appointments
    “My dentist appointment is at 3 p.m.”
    “The interview starts at 11.”
  • 19. Predicting Changes
    “People will use less paper in the future.”
    “The city will become more crowded.”
  • 20. Making Personal Promises
    “I’ll never forget this experience.”
    “I’ll try my best in the exam.”
  • 21. Making Arrangements in Writing
    “This essay will discuss the advantages and disadvantages.”
    “The data will be analyzed in the following paragraphs.”

    • Section 8: Common Mistakes with Future Forms (and How to Avoid Them)

    Mistake 1: Mixing up “will” and “going to”
    Incorrect: “I will going to study English.”
    Correct: “I will study English.” / “I am going to study English.”
    Mistake 2: Forgetting “am/is/are” with “going to” or present continuous
    Incorrect: “She going to travel.” / “He meeting his friend.”
    Correct: “She is going to travel.” / “He is meeting his friend.”
    Mistake 3: Using present continuous for predictions
    Incorrect: “It is raining tomorrow.” (for prediction)
    Correct: “It will rain tomorrow.” / “It’s going to rain.” (if based on evidence)
    Mistake 4: Using “will” for fixed arrangements
    Incorrect: “I will meet my friend at 6.” (if already arranged)
    Correct: “I am meeting my friend at 6.”
    Mistake 5: Overusing “will” for every future situation
    Incorrect: “Tomorrow I will go shopping, I will meet my friend, and I will eat lunch.” (sounds unnatural)
    Correct: “Tomorrow I’m going shopping, meeting my friend, and having lunch.”

    Section 9: Strategies and Tips to Master Future Forms for IELTS

    • 9.1. Identify the Situation
      Is it a prediction? (will/going to)
      Is it a plan or intention? (going to)
      Is it an arrangement? (present continuous)
      Is it a timetable? (present simple)
      Is it a quick decision? (will)
    • 9.2. Use Context Clues
      Look for words like “think,” “hope,” “probably,” “already arranged,” or a specific time.
    • 9.3. Practice with Real IELTS Questions
      Practice common IELTS speaking and writing questions about the future.
      E.g., “What will your city look like in 20 years?”
    • 9.4. Avoid Repetition
      Show variety. Use all three future forms when describing future plans, predictions, and arrangements in your answers.
    • 9.5. Record Yourself
      Record your answers to IELTS questions about the future. Listen and check for correct usage of future forms.
    Study Tip:
    Mix speaking, writing, and listening practice. The more you use these future forms in different contexts, the more natural they will become in your IELTS answers.

    Section 10: Practical Exercises to Master Future Forms

    Instructions: Complete each exercise below. Click your answer and check feedback. Try to understand why each answer is correct or incorrect.
    Exercise 1. Choose the correct future form for each sentence:
    1. Q: "Look at those clouds. It ________ rain soon."
    2. Q: "I think people ________ travel to Mars one day."
    3. Q: "I ________ meet my teacher at 5 p.m."
    Exercise 2. Complete the gaps with the correct future form (“will,” “going to,” or “present continuous”):
    1. "Next year, I ________ (move) to a new city."
    2. "She ________ (study) architecture at university."
    3. "Watch out! You ________ (drop) your coffee!"
    Exercise 3. Find and correct the mistake in each sentence:
    1. "I will going to visit my parents."
    2. "He meeting his friend tomorrow."
    Exercise 4. Rewrite each sentence using the correct future form:
    1. "Plan: visit Paris next summer."
    2. "Look! The train / arrive / soon."
    Exercise 5. Match each situation to the correct future form (drag or select):
    1. "A plan you decided before now:"
    2. "An arrangement with another person:"
    3. "A prediction with no evidence:"
    4. "A public timetable event:"
    Exercise 6. Choose the best word or phrase for each gap:
    1. "I think I ________ (will / am going to / am meeting) get a high score in IELTS."
    2. "Look at the time! The meeting ________ (will / is starting / am going to) soon."
    Exercise 7. Scenario Practice – What would you say?
    1. Examiner: "What are your plans for next year?"
      Choose the most natural answer:

    Comprehensive Vocabulary Integration: Key Words, Phrases, and Patterns

    will /wɪl/ Modal verb
    Used for making predictions, promises, and instant decisions about the future.
    Example: “I will help you with your homework.”
    Use “will” for decisions you make as you speak.
    be going to /ˈbiː ˈɡəʊɪŋ tuː/ Phrase (future expression)
    Used for plans/intentions decided before speaking and predictions based on evidence.
    Example: “She’s going to travel to Japan.”
    Don’t use “will going to.” Always include “am/is/are.”
    present continuous /ˈprez(ə)nt kənˈtɪnjʊəs/ Verb tense
    Used for future arrangements or plans made with another person (includes a set time).
    Example: “I am meeting Sam at 4 o’clock.”
    Always use am/is/are + verb-ing.
    present simple /ˈprez(ə)nt ˈsɪmp(ə)l/ Verb tense
    Used for timetabled or scheduled events, especially transport or official programs.
    Example: “The bus leaves at 7:30.”
    Use for fixed, public schedules (not private plans).
    arrangement /əˈreɪndʒmənt/ Noun
    A plan made with someone else, often with a set time.
    Example: “We have an arrangement to meet at noon.”
    intention /ɪnˈtɛnʃ(ə)n/ Noun
    Something you plan or want to do.
    Example: “Her intention is to study medicine.”
    Vocabulary Review: Match the word to its meaning
    1. "arrangement"
    2. "intention"
    Scenario-Based Practice: IELTS Speaking Part 2

    Describe a plan you have for the near future.
    You should say:

    • what the plan is
    • when and where it will happen
    • why you made this plan
    • and explain how you feel about it
    Tip: Try to use at least two different future forms (“going to,” “will,” or “present continuous”) in your answer.
    Example starter: “Next weekend, I am going to visit my cousin in Rotterdam. We have arranged to meet at her favorite cafe…”

    Self-Assessment Checklist: How Well Do You Know This?

    • ✅ I can use “will,” “going to,” and “present continuous” accurately for different future situations.
    • ✅ I know how to make predictions, promises, and instant decisions using “will.”
    • ✅ I understand when to use “going to” for plans and intentions.
    • ✅ I can describe fixed arrangements with “present continuous.”
    • ✅ I recognize timetabled events using “present simple.”
    • ✅ I can spot and correct common future form mistakes.
    • ✅ I have practiced using future forms in speaking and writing.
    • ✅ I feel more confident answering IELTS Speaking and Writing questions about the future.
    Your Study Plan: Next Steps
    1. Review this lesson again tomorrow and make your own examples for each future form.
    2. Practice answering at least five IELTS Speaking or Writing questions using different future forms.
    3. Record yourself talking about your future plans and listen for mistakes or repetition.
    4. Swap answers with a study partner and give each other feedback.
    5. Try to use “will,” “going to,” and “present continuous” in natural conversations this week.
    6. Do the end-of-article quiz and review all feedback for incorrect answers.
    7. Come back and repeat tricky exercises in this module after a few days.
    Keep going! Every step brings you closer to fluency. Mistakes are opportunities to grow. Practice a little every day and celebrate your progress!

    References & Further Reading

    Comprehensive End-of-Article Quiz

    Test yourself! This quiz randomly selects questions each time. Answer all and see your results and explanations at the end.

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