Indicative, Imperative, and Subjunctive Moods

Indicative covers ordinary statements/questions. Imperative uses the base verb with understood you for instructions/requests. Subjunctive patterns express recommendations, demands, wishes, and contrary-to-fact situations.

Patterns and examples

• She works remotely. (indicative)
• Please close the door. (imperative)
• They recommended that he be present. (mandative subjunctive)
• If I were you, I would wait. (irrealis)

Notice how form and meaning work together. Read examples aloud, identify the controlling word or clause, and compare them with nearby alternatives before applying the pattern in new writing.

Practice sentences

• Change a statement into a polite imperative.
• Complete a recommendation with the subjunctive.

After answering, explain the rule in your own words and create one original sentence using the same structure.