Verbs

Future forms

Will for future

Affirmative and negative

Question

We often use will to write formally about the future.

• Anne and Paula will take a month to walk across the Kalahari Desert.
• Any money you donate will help us start cooperative work projects.
  

Be + going to + infinitive

Affirmative and negative

Question

We often use be + going to + infinitive to talk informally about a future plan.

• I'm going to start doing a lot of exercise.
• Are you going to take any special equipment with you?
• We're going to take lots of water on our trek.

Present simple

We often use the present simple to talk about timetables or fixed itineraries.

• When exactly do you start your trek?
• We leave on the 1st of June.

Present continuous

We often use the present continuous to talk about arrangements made with other people.

• Betty and I are getting married. (= This is definite and arranged.)

Compare this to the going to future, which is used for decisions and plans.

• I'm going to get married one day. (= This is an intention of mine.)