Practice using modal verbs in this quick Modal Verbs Quiz How to Use Modal Verbs Present & Future Modals are 'helper verbs' that express: necessity possibility ability Here are some common ones: can Implies ability or capacity . "I can swim very well." could Use could to express possibility or ability in the present, for past ability , or to suggest something in the future. I could go to the gym if I finish my work early. (present tense) "I could run a mile when I was younger" (past tense) "We could go to the park tomorrow if it's sunny." (future tense/meaning) may Use for permission or possibility . "May I take a cookie?" or "It may rain tonight." might A less certain version of may . "I might go to the concert." should Use for recommendations or advice . "You should drink more water." must Expres