What is a modal verb?

The modal verbs in English grammar are can, could, may, might, must, need not,
shall/will, should/ought to. They express things like ability, permission, possibility,
obligation etc. Modal verbs only have one form. They do not take -s in the simple
present and they do not have a past simple or past participle form. However, some
modal verbs have alternative forms that allow us to express the same ideas in different
tenses.

Max’s father is a mechanic. He might retire soon, so he thinks Max should work in the
garage more often.

Max can already change tyres, but he has to learn a lot more about cars.

Max must do what he is told and must not touch any dangerous equipment.

Conjugation of English Modal Verbs

There are a few points to consider when using modal verbs in a sentence:

 Modal verbs are generally only used in the present tense in English but
we don’t add an -s in the third person singular.

Example:
He must do what he is told.
(not: )

 Modal verbs do not take an auxiliary verb in negative

sentences and questions.

Example:
Max need not /needn´t worry about his future.
Max must not/ mustn´t touch any dangerous equipment.
Can Max change a tyre?
May I open the door?

 We always use modal verbs with a main verb (except for short
answers and question tags). The main verb is used in
the infinitive without to.
 Example:

Max can change tyres. (not: Max can to change tyres.)

They must be slleping. (not: They must to be sleeping)