We use “Should” to give advice or to talk about what is right to do.
Should + base form verb
Use should not / Shouldn’t for the negative.
You should wear a sweater.
They should bring their notebooks tomorrow.
Sara shouldn’t take those books.
James shouldn’t leave without an umbrella.
We can use “should” to talk about the present or the future.
The secretary should type the report right now.
The manager should present the report on Monday.
They should take off their sweaters.
We should leave before the party ends.
“Ought to” means the same as “should”.
You should try this pie.
You ought to try this pie.
“Ought to” is not usually used in questions or negatives, we use “should” instead.
Should I wear a sweater?
Ought I to wear a sweater? (incorrect)
If you want to sound more polite, use “I think…” or “Maybe …” before you say “you should …” or “you ought to …”
I think you should see a doctor.
Maybe you ought to take a break.
I think you ought to arrive on time.
Maybe you should have something to eat.
Use “had better” to give advice. “Had better” is stronger than should. It implies that something bad might happen if you don’t follow the advice.
Had better + base form verb
James had better send those emails.
Rose had better make an appointment.
The negative form of “had better” is “had better not”. The contracted for of “had better” –
“‘d better” is more common in spoken language.
Steve had better not forget his passport.
He’d better not forget his passport.
Had better is used to talk about the present and the future.
The manager had better present the report on Monday.
You’d better take off your sweater.
We’d better leave before the party ends.
Be careful “had” in “had better” does not refer to the past tense.
You’d better not miss your flight tomorrow.
