The distinction between will and shall is becoming less important. In British English both will and shall are used with first person pronouns to express ideas such as willingness. In American English, shall is not normally used to express this idea.

Complete the following sentences using shall or will.

1. I ……………………. leave for Calcutta tomorrow.

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

2. We ………………….. discuss the matter with the Principal.

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

3. I ……………………… be eighteen next Monday.

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

4. We ……………………… invite them to dinner.

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

5. You …………………….. go at once. (command).

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

6. He ……………………… carry out my instructions. (command)

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

7. He ……………………. be given a present if the passes this year. (Futurity)

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

8. You …………………… get a medal if you stand first.

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

9. ………………….. I help you?

a) will
b) shall
c) Either could be used here

Answers

1. I will/shall leave for Calcutta tomorrow.

2. We will/shall discuss the matter with the Principal.

3. I will/shall be eighteen next Monday.

4. We will/shall invite them to dinner.

5. You shall go at once. (command).

6. He shall carry out my instructions. (command)

7. He will be given a present if the passes this year. (Futurity)

8. You will get a medal if you stand first.

9. Shall I help you?