As Wikipedia notes, "a modal verb (also modal, modal auxiliary verb, modal auxiliary, semi-auxiliary verb) is a type of auxiliary verb that is used to indicate modality – that is, likelihood, ability, permission, and obligation." The most common modals used in English are can, could, will, would, shall (used in question forms usually), should, might, may, and must.
The following resources offer detailed information on the various categories of modals, when these modals are used, and finally some exercises to practice with.
| Website | Page Name | Comments |
| Perfect English Grammar | Categories of Modal Verbs | I chose this page first because I believe that it is important that students understand how modals are categorized before moving further into the subject of modals. Look for the "click here for all the exercises about modal verbs" hyperlink on this page to practice. |
| Learning English Online | Modals | Next, I recommend this page because of how well-organized it is. It clearly lists the common modals, indicates their "use," and then provides examples. |
| English Page | Modal Verb Tutorial | Once you're ready to practice, this page offers exercises. |
| A-4-ESL | Modal Quiz | Once you're ready to practice, this is another page with exercises. |
| University of Victoria | Passives with Modals | This page is for student studying in upper-intermediate or advanced English classes. The document outlines how to use the passive voice with modals. |
| YouTube (هشام كرسيت) | "Would," "Could," and "Should" | This English-French video explains the modal auxiliary verbs "would," "could," and "should." If you like the format of this person's videos, there are more videos on other grammar subjects here. |
| My Reference (Jamie) | Chapter 5-2-1: Modal Auxiliary Verbs (Modal Auxiliaries) |
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