THE FUTURE TENSE

Present Simple (with future meaning):

> Timetables (programmes, trains, buses, etc.):
- The film starts at 9.30 p.m.
- What time does the plane leave tomorrow?
- It leaves at 08.00a.m.
> Dates:
- The museum opens on May 12.

Present Continuous (with future meaning): >

Arrangements & appointments:
- I’m having a party on Saturday. Most of my
friends are coming.
- I’m seeing my doctor on Friday at 10.

Be + Going + To (infinitive)
> Plans & Intentions:
I plan to do something but I am not sure if I’ll do it or not.
- This afternoon I’m going to visit my granny. >
Predictions: we can see now something is going to
happen:
- Look at the sky! It’s going to rain.
- Oh! It’s 9 o’clock and I’m not ready. I’m going to be late.
Will + infinitive
We use WILL when we talk about the future (tomorrow,
next week, etc), when we give our opinion about what
we THINK it is going to happen.
- I think I will live and work in Barcelona.
- Maybe/Perhaps I’ll work as a teacher.

We also use WILL + infinitive for:

- OFFERS:
It’s very hot in here > I’ll open the window. -
PROMISES:
It’s a secret. Ok, I won’t tell anyone.