Future (1) Plans and Intentions

Present simple for timetabled events

We use the present simple:

1. For future events which are fixed in a timetable.

My train leaves at ten past eight.
2. For future events which are going to take place at a fixed time:
The match starts at midday.

Present continuous for future plans

We use the present continuous, usually with the time mentioned:

1. For definite plans:

My friend Tom is coming to stay with us at the end of May.
What are you doing at the weekend?
2. For things we’ve already decided to do:
I’m getting up early tomorrow.
We’re not eating before we go out.

Going to future

We use going to:

1. For plans which have already been made (this use is similar to the
present continuous):
My friend Diego is going to visit me at the end of May.
What are you going to do at the weekend?
Will future

We use will:

1. For actions which we decide to do as we speak:

I’ll look online for the address I need.
I’ll phone my mom and see if she can pick me up.

NOTE: There is often little difference in meaning between will and going to,
especially when they are used with an adverb such as certainly, probably,
definitely or a phrase such as I think, I hope.

Adverbs in sentences with going to and will.

Adverb position with going to:

I’m definitely going to watch the soccer match.
You’re definitely not going to watch the football match.

Adverb position with will:

I’ll probably watch the match.
I probably won’t watch the match. (not I won’t probably watch the
match)