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English Grammar in Use / A Practical English Grammar

1. Articles and one, a little/a few, this, that

2. Nouns

3. Adjectives

4. Irregular verbs

 

Common Errors in English

1. Misused forms – Using a Wrong Preposition

2. Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive

3. Misused forms – The Use of a Wrong Tense

4. Misused forms – Miscellaneous Examples

5. Misused forms – Un-English Expressions

6. Incorrect Omissions – Omission of Prepositions

7. Incorrect Omissions – Miscellaneous Examples

8. Unnecessary Words – Unnecessary Prepositions

9. Unnecessary Words – Unnecessary Articles

10. Unnecessary Words – The Infinitive without "To"

11. Unnecessary Words – Miscellaneous Examples

12. Misplaced Words – Wrong Position of Adverbs

13. Misplaced Words – Miscellaneous Examples

14. Confused Words – Prepositions often Confused

15. Confused Words – Verbs often Confused

16. Confused Words – Adverbs often Confused

17. Confused Words – Adjectives often Confused

18. Confused Words – Nouns often Confused

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20. Confused Words – Confusion of Parts of Speech

 

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Common Grammar Mistakes » English Grammar Test 1: Misused Forms – Misuse Of The Infinitive

Imagine writing a sentence that feels perfectly fine in your head, but the moment someone reads it, they know something is wrong.

That is the sneaky problem with infinitives.

You may say, “I want to improve my English.” That is correct. But then you may say, “I enjoy to learn English.” That sounds close, but it is wrong. One little word, “to,” can make your sentence smooth, awkward, or completely incorrect. That is why this lesson on Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive is so important for beginners.

Here is the good news. You do not need to memorize a giant grammar book to understand infinitives. You only need to learn the common patterns, see many examples, and practice them until they feel natural.

But there is one confusing secret about infinitives that surprises many learners: sometimes “to” is needed, sometimes “to” is forbidden, and sometimes the correct answer depends on the verb before it.

So how do you know which one to choose?

Stay with this lesson, because by the end, you will know how to spot the misuse of the infinitive, fix it quickly, and avoid one of the most common grammar mistakes in English.

Common Grammar Mistakes And Why Infinitives Matter

English grammar has many small parts that cause big mistakes. Articles, prepositions, verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and word order all matter. But the infinitive is one of the most common trouble spots because it looks simple.

The infinitive usually looks like this:

to + base verb

It looks easy. That is the trap.

Many beginners think they can use “to + verb” anywhere. But English does not work that way. Some verbs need the infinitive. Some verbs reject it. Some verbs need an -ing form instead. Some verbs use the base verb without “to.”

This is why a sentence like “I want to learn” is correct, but “I enjoy to learn” is incorrect.

Correct: I want to learn English.

Incorrect: I enjoy to learn English.

Correct: I enjoy learning English.

This blog post will help you understand Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive in a simple and friendly way. You will see the mistake, understand why it happens, and learn how to fix it.

What Is An Infinitive?

An infinitive is the basic form of a verb, often with the word “to” before it.

Think of the infinitive as the “name” of an action. It does not show who does the action. It does not show when the action happens. It simply names the action.

For example:

I want to sleep.

She plans to study.

They hope to win.

We need to leave.

In each sentence, the infinitive explains the action connected to the main verb.

In “I want to sleep,” the main verb is “want.” The infinitive is “to sleep.” It tells us what the person wants.

In “She plans to study,” the main verb is “plans.” The infinitive is “to study.” It tells us what she plans.

That is the basic idea. But English adds a twist. Not every verb can be followed by an infinitive.

That is where the misuse of the infinitive begins.

The Two Main Types Of Infinitives

There are two common types of infinitives beginners should know.

The first type is the full infinitive.

This includes “to.”

The second type is the bare infinitive.

This does not include “to.”

You use the bare infinitive after certain verbs, especially modal verbs.

Correct: She can swim.

Incorrect: She can to swim.

Correct: You must go.

Incorrect: You must to go.

Correct: They should study.

Incorrect: They should to study.

This is important because many beginners think every infinitive needs “to.” But that is not true. Sometimes the correct infinitive has no “to” at all.

Why The Misuse Of The Infinitive Happens So Often

The misuse of the infinitive happens for several reasons.

First, English has fixed verb patterns. Some verbs are followed by infinitives. Some verbs are followed by gerunds. A gerund is the -ing form of a verb used like a noun.

I want to swim.

I enjoy swimming.

Both sentences talk about swimming. But the grammar pattern is different.

You say “want to swim,” not “want swimming.”

You say “enjoy swimming,” not “enjoy to swim.”

Second, many learners translate directly from another language. That can create mistakes because English sentence patterns may not match the learner’s first language.

Third, “to” can be confusing because it has more than one job. Sometimes “to” is part of an infinitive.

I want to learn.

Sometimes “to” is a preposition.

I look forward to meeting you.

In the second sentence, “to” is not part of an infinitive. It is a preposition, so the next verb becomes “meeting,” not “meet.”

That is why this sentence is wrong:

Incorrect: I look forward to meet you.

Correct: I look forward to meeting you.

This small detail causes many common grammar mistakes.

Mistake 1: Using An Infinitive After A Verb That Needs A Gerund

This is one of the biggest mistakes in English grammar.

Some verbs are followed by the -ing form, not the infinitive.

Incorrect: I enjoy to watch movies.

Correct: I enjoy watching movies.

The verb “enjoy” is followed by a gerund. So you need “watching,” not “to watch.”

More examples:

Incorrect: She finished to clean the room.

Correct: She finished cleaning the room.

Incorrect: They avoided to answer the question.

Correct: They avoided answering the question.

Incorrect: He suggested to take a break.

Correct: He suggested taking a break.

Incorrect: I considered to buy a new phone.

Correct: I considered buying a new phone.

Common verbs followed by gerunds include:

Here are more natural examples:

I enjoy reading at night.

She avoids eating too much sugar.

We finished painting the room.

He suggested leaving early.

They considered moving to another city.

I practice speaking English every day.

A simple memory trick is this: if the verb describes enjoying, avoiding, finishing, practicing, or suggesting an action, it often takes the -ing form.

This is not perfect for every verb, but it helps beginners make better guesses.

Mistake 2: Using “Suggest To” Incorrectly

The verb “suggest” causes many grammar mistakes.

Incorrect: She suggested to go home.

Correct: She suggested going home.

Correct: She suggested that we go home.

You do not usually say “suggest to do something” when the same person is doing the action. You use a gerund or a that-clause.

Incorrect: He suggested to call the teacher.

Correct: He suggested calling the teacher.

Correct: He suggested that we call the teacher.

Incorrect: I suggested him to study harder.

Correct: I suggested that he study harder.

Correct: I suggested studying harder.

This mistake happens because learners often connect “suggest” with advice. They think it works like “tell” or “ask.”

But “tell” and “ask” can use object + infinitive.

Correct: I told him to study.

Correct: I asked her to help.

“Suggest” does not normally work that way.

Incorrect: I suggested him to study.

Correct: I suggested that he study.

Correct: I suggested studying.

This is a key point in Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive because “suggest” appears often in grammar tests.

Mistake 3: Using “Recommend To” Incorrectly

“Recommend” is similar to “suggest.”

Incorrect: I recommend you to try this app.

Better: I recommend that you try this app.

Better: I recommend trying this app.

In American English, you may sometimes hear “recommend someone to do something,” especially in certain formal or professional contexts. But for beginners, the safer and more natural patterns are:

recommend + gerund

recommend + that-clause

I recommend reading this book.

She recommended taking the test again.

They recommend that students practice daily.

The doctor recommended that he rest.

Common mistake:

Incorrect: My teacher recommended me to practice more.

Better: My teacher recommended that I practice more.

Better: My teacher recommended practicing more.

When in doubt, use “recommend that” or “recommend + ing.”

Mistake 4: Forgetting “To” When The Infinitive Is Needed

Sometimes beginners remove “to” when English needs it.

Incorrect: I want learn English.

Incorrect: She decided go home.

Correct: She decided to go home.

Incorrect: We need finish this today.

Correct: We need to finish this today.

Some verbs are commonly followed by the full infinitive.

Examples in sentences:

I want to improve my grammar.

She needs to call her mother.

They plan to visit Chicago.

We hope to win the game.

He decided to leave early.

I promise to help you.

She agreed to meet us at noon.

They refused to answer.

The “to” is not decoration. It is part of the pattern.

If you remove it, the sentence sounds broken.

Mistake 5: Adding “To” After Modal Verbs

Modal verbs are words like can, could, may, might, must, shall, should, will, and would.

After these verbs, use the base verb without “to.”

Correct: I can swim.

Incorrect: I can to swim.

Correct: You should study.

Incorrect: You should to study.

Correct: They must leave.

Incorrect: They must to leave.

Correct: She will call you.

Incorrect: She will to call you.

This is called the bare infinitive. It is still an infinitive idea, but it does not use “to.”

He can drive.

We should wait.

You must listen.

They might come.

She could help.

I would like to add one important note. “Have to” is not a modal verb in the same pattern. It uses “to.”

Correct: I have to go.

Correct: She has to study.

Correct: We had to wait.

So remember:

Mistake 6: Adding “To” After Let, Make, And Help

Some verbs are followed by an object and a bare infinitive.

The most common ones are:

Correct: Let me go.

Incorrect: Let me to go.

Correct: She made me laugh.

Incorrect: She made me to laugh.

Correct: He helped me carry the bags.

Correct: He helped me to carry the bags.

With “help,” both forms are common:

help someone do something

help someone to do something

In American English, the shorter form without “to” often sounds more natural.

My brother helped me fix my bike.

The teacher helped us understand the lesson.

This app helps beginners practice grammar.

But with “let” and “make,” do not use “to.”

Correct: My parents let me stay up late.

Incorrect: My parents let me to stay up late.

Correct: The movie made me cry.

Incorrect: The movie made me to cry.

Mistake 7: Using An Infinitive After A Preposition

This is another huge beginner mistake.

After a preposition, use a noun or a gerund, not an infinitive.

Incorrect: I am interested to learn English.

Correct: I am interested in learning English.

The preposition is “in.” After “in,” use “learning.”

Incorrect: She is good at to sing.

Correct: She is good at singing.

Incorrect: He talked about to move.

Correct: He talked about moving.

Incorrect: We are excited about to travel.

Correct: We are excited about traveling.

Incorrect: I am tired of to wait.

Correct: I am tired of waiting.

Common preposition phrases followed by gerunds include:

interested in learning

good at speaking

bad at remembering

tired of waiting

afraid of failing

excited about traveling

thinking about moving

looking forward to meeting

Here is the tricky part. The word “to” can also be a preposition.

In the phrase “look forward to,” the word “to” is a preposition. So you use a gerund after it.

Correct: She is used to waking up early.

Incorrect: She is used to wake up early.

Correct: They are committed to improving their skills.

Incorrect: They are committed to improve their skills.

This is one of the most tested areas in lessons about Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive.

Mistake 8: Confusing “Used To” And “Be Used To”

These two forms look similar, but they are different.

Used to + base verb means a past habit.

I used to play soccer.

She used to live in Texas.

They used to walk to school.

Be used to + gerund means something is familiar or normal for you.

I am used to waking up early.

She is used to driving in traffic.

They are used to studying at night.

Incorrect: I am used to wake up early.

Correct: I am used to waking up early.

Another common mistake:

Incorrect: I used to waking up early when I was younger.

Correct: I used to wake up early when I was younger.

Here is the simple difference:

I used to wake up early. That means I did it in the past.

I am used to waking up early. That means waking up early is normal for me now.

Mistake 9: Misusing Infinitives With Purpose

Infinitives often show purpose. They explain why someone does something.

I went to the store to buy milk.

She studies hard to pass the test.

He called me to ask a question.

They saved money to buy a car.

In each sentence, the infinitive answers “why?”

Why did I go to the store?

To buy milk.

Why does she study hard?

To pass the test.

Incorrect: I came for see you.

Correct: I came to see you.

Incorrect: She works hard for earn money.

Correct: She works hard to earn money.

Incorrect: He went outside for talk to his friend.

Correct: He went outside to talk to his friend.

You can use “for” before a noun.

Correct: I came for a meeting.

Correct: She works for money.

Correct: He went outside for fresh air.

But before a verb, use “to.”

Correct: I came to meet you.

Correct: She works to earn money.

Correct: He went outside to breathe fresh air.

Mistake 10: Using Infinitives After “Go” In Awkward Ways

In casual American English, people often use “go + base verb” for common activities.

Let’s go eat.

We should go see a movie.

I want to go buy some coffee.

This is common in speech. But beginners sometimes add too many “to” words.

Awkward: Let’s go to eat.

Natural: Let’s go eat.

Awkward: I want to go to buy coffee.

Natural: I want to go buy coffee.

Also correct: I want to go to the store to buy coffee.

The difference is structure.

If you say “go” followed directly by another action, American English often uses the base verb.

Let’s go watch the game.

Let’s go talk to him.

But if you mention a place, use “go to + place.”

Let’s go to a restaurant to eat.

Let’s go to the theater to watch the movie.

Let’s go to his house to talk to him.

Mistake 11: Using The Wrong Form After Question Words

Infinitives often come after question words like what, where, when, how, and which.

I do not know what to say.

She cannot decide where to go.

Tell me how to fix this.

We need to know when to start.

He asked which book to read.

Common mistakes:

Incorrect: I do not know what say.

Correct: I do not know what to say.

Incorrect: She cannot decide where go.

Correct: She cannot decide where to go.

Incorrect: Tell me how fix this.

Correct: Tell me how to fix this.

This pattern is very useful in daily English.

Where to go

How to start

When to leave

Which one to choose

I know what to do.

Do you know where to park?

She learned how to cook.

We forgot when to call.

They are deciding which house to buy.

Mistake 12: Using An Infinitive Where A That-Clause Is Needed

Sometimes an infinitive cannot clearly show who should do the action. In those cases, a that-clause is better.

Incorrect: It is important to he arrive early.

Correct: It is important that he arrive early.

Correct: It is important for him to arrive early.

The incorrect sentence mixes “to” with a subject. You cannot say “to he arrive.”

You can say:

for him to arrive

that he arrive

Incorrect: It is necessary to she finish the form.

Correct: It is necessary for her to finish the form.

Correct: It is necessary that she finish the form.

Incorrect: The teacher requested to the students submit the work.

Correct: The teacher requested that the students submit the work.

Some words of importance, request, advice, or demand often use that-clauses.

It is important that you be careful.

The manager requested that everyone arrive early.

The teacher suggested that he study more.

The rule is simple. If you need to name a subject before the second action, do not force an infinitive. Use “for + object + infinitive” or a that-clause.

Mistake 13: Putting “Not” In The Wrong Place

Negative infinitives use “not” before “to.”

Correct: I decided not to go.

Incorrect: I decided to not go.

In modern English, “to not go” is often used in casual speech, and many people accept it. But for grammar tests, school writing, and formal English, “not to go” is the safer choice.

Correct: She promised not to tell anyone.

Correct: We agreed not to argue.

Correct: He asked me not to call late.

Correct: They tried not to laugh.

Incorrect: I told him to not smoke.

Better: I told him not to smoke.

Incorrect: She asked me to not be late.

Better: She asked me not to be late.

This is a small grammar point, but it can make your writing cleaner.

Mistake 14: Confusing Verbs That Change Meaning

Some verbs can be followed by either an infinitive or a gerund, but the meaning changes.

This is where English gets interesting.

Let’s look at the most common ones.

I remembered to lock the door.

This means I did not forget. I locked it.

I remember locking the door.

This means I have a memory of locking it.

I forgot to call her.

This means I did not call her.

I forgot calling her.

This means I called her, but I do not remember it. This is less common, but possible.

She stopped to talk.

This means she stopped another action so she could talk.

She stopped talking.

This means she quit the action of talking.

He tried to open the window.

This means he made an effort.

He tried opening the window.

This means he tested that action as a possible solution.

I regret to tell you the bad news.

This is used before saying something sad or formal.

I regret telling you the secret.

This means I told you, and now I feel bad about it.

These differences are important because the wrong form can change your meaning completely.

Imagine saying:

I stopped to eat sugar.

That means you stopped another activity so you could eat sugar.

But if you mean you quit eating sugar, say:

I stopped eating sugar.

That is a big difference.

Mistake 15: Using Infinitives Awkwardly As Subjects

Infinitives can be used as subjects.

Correct: To learn English takes time.

Correct: To speak clearly is important.

These sentences are grammatically correct. But in everyday English, they often sound formal or stiff.

More natural:

Learning English takes time.

Speaking clearly is important.

Reading every day improves vocabulary.

Using gerunds as subjects usually sounds smoother in modern American English.

Formal: To exercise daily is healthy.

Natural: Exercising daily is healthy.

Formal: To save money is smart.

Natural: Saving money is smart.

This is not always a grammar mistake, but it can be a style mistake. If your goal is natural English, use gerunds as subjects most of the time.

Mistake 16: Using Infinitives Incorrectly After Adjectives

Many adjectives are followed by infinitives.

I am happy to help.

She is ready to leave.

He is eager to learn.

They are willing to try.

It is hard to explain.

It is easy to understand.

But some adjective phrases use prepositions and gerunds instead.

I am interested in learning.

She is tired of waiting.

He is good at writing.

They are afraid of failing.

Incorrect: I am interested to learn Spanish.

Correct: I am interested in learning Spanish.

Incorrect: She is good to play tennis.

Correct: She is good at playing tennis.

Incorrect: He is tired to wait.

Correct: He is tired of waiting.

But notice this:

Correct: I am happy to learn.

Correct: She is ready to play.

Correct: He is eager to start.

So the adjective matters.

Here are common adjective + infinitive patterns:

happy to help

glad to meet

ready to go

eager to learn

willing to work

likely to win

able to drive

easy to use

hard to understand

Here are common adjective + preposition + gerund patterns:

bad at spelling

worried about losing

Mistake 17: Misusing Infinitives After Nouns

Infinitives often follow nouns to explain purpose, possibility, or something that needs to be done.

I have homework to finish.

She has a book to read.

He needs a place to stay.

We have a problem to solve.

They made a plan to improve sales.

Incorrect: I have homework for finish.

Correct: I have homework to finish.

Incorrect: She needs a place for stay.

Correct: She needs a place to stay.

Incorrect: We have a problem for solve.

Correct: We have a problem to solve.

The infinitive often answers the question “what kind?” or “for what purpose?”

A book to read means a book that someone can read.

A place to stay means a place where someone can stay.

A plan to improve means a plan for improvement.

Mistake 18: Misusing “Too” And “Enough” With Infinitives

The words “too” and “enough” often connect with infinitives.

She is too tired to walk.

He is too young to drive.

This box is too heavy to lift.

I am old enough to vote.

She is strong enough to carry it.

They are ready enough to compete.

Incorrect: She is too tired walk.

Correct: She is too tired to walk.

Incorrect: He is enough old to drive.

Correct: He is old enough to drive.

Incorrect: The bag is too heavy carry.

Correct: The bag is too heavy to carry.

The pattern is:

too + adjective + to + verb

adjective + enough + to + verb

too busy to talk

too cold to swim

too late to call

smart enough to understand

fast enough to win

brave enough to try

This pattern is simple and powerful. Use it often.

Mistake 19: Misusing Infinitives After “Be Supposed To”

“Be supposed to” is a common phrase in English. It means expected, required, or planned.

I am supposed to call my teacher.

She is supposed to arrive at 8.

They are supposed to finish today.

We were supposed to meet at noon.

Incorrect: I am supposed call him.

Correct: I am supposed to call him.

Incorrect: She supposed to arrive at 8.

Correct: She is supposed to arrive at 8.

Incorrect: They are suppose to finish today.

Correct: They are supposed to finish today.

Do not forget the verb “be.”

I am supposed to

You are supposed to

He is supposed to

They were supposed to

Also, do not write “suppose to” when you mean “supposed to.”

In fast speech, people may sound like they are saying “suppose to.” But in correct writing, use “supposed to.”

Mistake 20: Misusing Infinitives In Commands And Requests

Commands usually use the base verb without “to.”

Correct: Sit down.

Incorrect: To sit down.

Correct: Open the door.

Incorrect: To open the door.

Correct: Please call me.

Incorrect: Please to call me.

However, when a request uses verbs like ask, tell, invite, or remind, you often need object + infinitive.

I asked him to sit down.

She told me to open the door.

They invited us to join them.

Please remind me to call her.

Incorrect: I asked him sit down.

Correct: I asked him to sit down.

Incorrect: She told me open the door.

Correct: She told me to open the door.

Incorrect: They invited us join them.

Correct: They invited us to join them.

Command: Open the door.

Request with object: I asked him to open the door.

Mistake 21: Misusing “Want,” “Would Like,” And “Need”

These three patterns are very common in daily English.

would like to

I want to learn grammar.

I would like to take a test.

I need to practice more.

When you add another person, use object + infinitive.

I want you to listen.

She would like him to call.

We need them to arrive early.

Incorrect: I want that you listen.

Correct: I want you to listen.

Incorrect: She wants me help her.

Correct: She wants me to help her.

Incorrect: We need them arrive early.

Correct: We need them to arrive early.

This pattern is very useful for real life.

I want you to be honest.

My teacher wants me to improve.

My parents want me to study.

The company needs workers to arrive on time.

Mistake 22: Misusing Infinitives With “Allow” And “Permit”

The verbs “allow” and “permit” can use object + infinitive.

My parents allow me to drive.

The school permits students to use laptops.

The app allows users to practice grammar.

But if there is no object, use a gerund.

The school allows using laptops.

The rule permits parking here.

This sign does not allow smoking.

Incorrect: My parents allow me drive.

Correct: My parents allow me to drive.

Incorrect: The school allows to use laptops.

Correct: The school allows students to use laptops.

Correct: The school allows using laptops.

This is a helpful pattern:

allow someone to do something

allow doing something

permit someone to do something

permit doing something

Mistake 23: Misusing Infinitives After “Tell,” “Ask,” And “Invite”

These verbs often need an object before the infinitive.

Correct: She told me to wait.

Incorrect: She told to wait.

Correct: I asked him to help.

Incorrect: I asked to him to help.

Correct: They invited us to come.

Incorrect: They invited to come.

tell + person + to + verb

ask + person + to + verb

invite + person + to + verb

My teacher told us to study.

I asked my friend to explain it.

She invited her cousins to visit.

The coach told the players to run.

Incorrect: I said him to wait.

Correct: I told him to wait.

Correct: I said to him, “Wait.”

In English, “say” and “tell” work differently.

You tell someone to do something.

You say something to someone.

Mistake 24: Misusing Infinitives In Everyday Speech

Let’s look at some everyday sentences and fix them.

Incorrect: I need go to the store.

Correct: I need to go to the store.

Incorrect: I enjoy to cook on weekends.

Correct: I enjoy cooking on weekends.

Incorrect: She made me to smile.

Correct: She made me smile.

Incorrect: I am looking forward to see you.

Correct: I am looking forward to seeing you.

Incorrect: He suggested me to wait.

Correct: He suggested that I wait.

Correct: He suggested waiting.

Incorrect: I am good to solve problems.

Correct: I am good at solving problems.

Incorrect: You must to be careful.

Correct: You must be careful.

Incorrect: I came here for learn English.

Correct: I came here to learn English.

Each mistake looks small. But small mistakes can make a sentence sound unnatural. When you fix them, your English becomes clearer right away.

The Easy Pattern Method For Beginners

You do not need to memorize every grammar rule at once. A better method is to learn patterns.

Think of each verb as having a “favorite partner.”

Want likes “to.”

Enjoy likes “ing.”

I enjoy learning.

Can likes the base verb.

I can learn.

Look forward to likes “ing.”

I look forward to learning.

Let likes the base verb.

Let me learn.

Ask someone likes “to.”

Ask him to learn.

When you study this way, grammar becomes easier. You stop asking, “What is the rule?” and start noticing, “What pattern does this word use?”

That is how native speakers learn too. They hear patterns again and again until the correct form sounds normal.

Infinitive Or Gerund: A Simple Beginner Guide

Here is a simple guide.

Use the infinitive after these verbs:

need to study

hope to win

plan to travel

decide to leave

promise to help

agree to wait

refuse to answer

learn to drive

expect to succeed

Use the gerund after these verbs:

enjoy reading

avoid making mistakes

finish eating

suggest going

consider moving

practice speaking

keep trying

imagine living

miss seeing

discuss changing

Use the bare infinitive after these words:

should study

make him wait

help me learn

Use a gerund after prepositions:

good at writing

look forward to meeting

This guide will not cover every case in English, but it will prevent many common grammar mistakes.

Why Grammar Tests Focus On Misused Forms

Grammar tests often focus on misused forms because these mistakes show whether you understand sentence patterns.

A test may ask:

Choose the correct sentence.

a) I enjoy to read books.

b) I enjoy reading books.

The answer is b.

Another test may ask:

a) She made me to wait.

b) She made me wait.

These questions may seem simple, but they test a real skill. They test whether you know which verb form belongs after each word.

That is why a page like Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive can help beginners build accuracy step by step.

The Most Common Infinitive Verbs To Memorize First

Some verbs are so common that beginners should learn them early.

I want to speak better English.

You need to practice every day.

We plan to take the test tomorrow.

She hopes to pass the exam.

He decided to study at night.

I promise to call you.

They agreed to help us.

He refused to answer.

She learned to drive.

Do not forget to bring your notebook.

He offered to help me.

It seems to work.

If you remember these patterns, you will avoid many common infinitive mistakes.

The Most Common Gerund Verbs To Memorize First

Now learn these common gerund verbs.

I enjoy learning English.

Avoid making the same mistake.

She finished writing the email.

He suggested taking a break.

We considered buying a new computer.

Practice speaking every day.

Keep trying.

Imagine living in New York.

I miss seeing my friends.

They discussed changing the plan.

Do you mind waiting?

He admitted breaking the rule.

She denied taking the money.

These verbs usually do not take the infinitive. So do not say “enjoy to,” “avoid to,” or “finish to.”

Infinitives In Real American English

In everyday American English, infinitives appear everywhere.

I need to finish my homework.

The teacher asked us to read chapter five.

We hope to get good grades.

I plan to send the report today.

My boss asked me to call the client.

We decided to start the meeting early.

I want to cook dinner.

She helped me clean the kitchen.

They forgot to lock the door.

With friends:

Do you want to watch a movie?

I am happy to see you.

We hope to visit Florida.

I need to book a hotel.

They decided to drive instead of fly.

When you notice infinitives in real life, they become easier to use.

Mini Story: The Student Who Feared “To”

Let’s imagine a beginner named Jake.

Jake wants to write better English. He studies hard. He knows many words. But every time he writes a sentence, he gets nervous.

One day, he writes:

I enjoy to study English because I want speaking better.

His teacher smiles and says, “Jake, your idea is clear. But your verb forms need help.”

The teacher corrects it:

I enjoy studying English because I want to speak better.

Jake looks confused. “Why is one verb studying and the other to speak?”

The teacher says, “Because enjoy takes a gerund, and want takes an infinitive.”

That one sentence changes everything for Jake. He stops trying to guess. He starts learning patterns.

A week later, he writes:

I plan to practice every day. I enjoy learning new words. I hope to improve soon.

Now his sentences sound natural.

The lesson is simple. You do not need to fear infinitives. You only need to learn which words invite them.

Quick Grammar Check: Correct Or Incorrect?

Read each sentence and decide if it is correct.

1. I want to learn English.

2. She enjoys to dance.

Correct: She enjoys dancing.

3. They made me wait.

4. He can to swim.

Correct: He can swim.

5. I look forward to meeting you.

6. She suggested to call him.

Correct: She suggested calling him.

7. I forgot to bring my book.

8. We are interested to learn more.

Correct: We are interested in learning more.

9. The teacher asked us to listen.

10. Let me to explain.

Correct: Let me explain.

Practice like this often. Short quizzes help your brain notice patterns faster.

Common Grammar Mistakes Quiz On Misuse Of The Infinitive

a) I enjoy to play basketball.

b) I enjoy playing basketball.

a) She decided to stay home.

b) She decided staying home.

a) He made me to laugh.

b) He made me laugh.

a) We are looking forward to seeing you.

b) We are looking forward to see you.

a) They suggested going early.

b) They suggested to go early.

a) I asked him help me.

b) I asked him to help me.

a) You must be careful.

b) You must to be careful.

a) She is good at writing stories.

b) She is good to write stories.

a) I came here to learn.

b) I came here for learn.

a) He promised not to tell anyone.

b) He promised to not tell anyone.

Answer: a is safer for grammar tests.

More Practice Sentences To Rewrite

Rewrite each incorrect sentence.

1. I want learn English.

2. She enjoys to read novels.

Correct: She enjoys reading novels.

3. He suggested me to wait.

4. They made us to clean the room.

Correct: They made us clean the room.

5. I am interested to study grammar.

Correct: I am interested in studying grammar.

6. You should to call your friend.

Correct: You should call your friend.

7. We came for see the show.

Correct: We came to see the show.

8. She asked me help her.

Correct: She asked me to help her.

9. I look forward to hear from you.

Correct: I look forward to hearing from you.

10. He is too tired walk.

Correct: He is too tired to walk.

These examples show the heart of Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive. Most errors happen because the learner chooses the wrong form after a verb, adjective, preposition, or phrase.

How To Remember Infinitive Rules Without Getting Bored

Grammar can feel dry if you only read rules. So make it active.

First, create pattern groups.

Write these in a notebook:

enjoy + ing

avoid + ing

finish + ing

look forward to + ing

can + base verb

must + base verb

let + object + base verb

Second, write your own examples.

I want to improve.

I need to practice.

I avoid rushing.

I can speak slowly.

Let me try.

Third, say the sentences out loud.

Your ears are powerful. If you repeat correct patterns often, wrong patterns start to sound strange.

Fourth, take short grammar tests.

Do not study for two hours and quit. Study for five minutes every day. Small practice works better than one giant study session.

Learning research often shows that spaced practice helps people remember better than cramming. That means short, repeated practice sessions can be more useful than one long session right before a test.

So instead of trying to master infinitives in one night, practice a little today, a little tomorrow, and a little the next day.

The “Word Before The Verb” Trick

Here is one of the easiest ways to avoid the misuse of the infinitive.

Look at the word before the verb.

I enjoy ___ English.

The word before the blank is “enjoy.” Enjoy takes a gerund.

Another example:

I want ___ English.

The word before the blank is “want.” Want takes an infinitive.

I can ___ English.

The word before the blank is “can.” Can takes the base verb.

Correct: I can learn English.

I am interested in ___ English.

The phrase before the blank is “interested in.” After a preposition, use a gerund.

This trick works because English grammar is pattern-based. The word before the verb often tells you what form to use next.

Infinitive Mistakes In Writing

Infinitive mistakes can make writing look less polished. This matters in school, emails, job applications, and online messages.

Look at this email sentence:

Incorrect: I am writing to ask you help me with my account.

Correct: I am writing to ask you to help me with my account.

Incorrect: I look forward to meet you next week.

Correct: I look forward to meeting you next week.

Incorrect: I would like applying for the job.

Correct: I would like to apply for the job.

In professional writing, these small corrections matter. They make your message clearer and more confident.

Infinitive Mistakes In Speaking

In speaking, people may still understand you even if you misuse the infinitive. But the sentence may sound unnatural.

People understand the meaning. But it sounds like beginner English.

People understand the idea. But it sounds wrong.

The goal is not to be perfect every second. The goal is to improve one pattern at a time.

The more you practice, the more automatic it becomes.

Infinitives And Confidence

Grammar is not just about rules. It also affects confidence.

When you know how to use infinitives, you speak with less hesitation. You write with fewer doubts. You do not stop every sentence and wonder, “Should I use to? Should I use ing? Should I remove to?”

That confidence matters.

A beginner who knows common patterns can sound much more natural than a learner who knows many big words but uses verb forms incorrectly.

Clear grammar helps your ideas shine.

And infinitives are a big part of clear grammar.

A Simple Infinitive Checklist

Before you finish a sentence, ask yourself these questions:

Does the first verb need “to”?

Example: want to, need to, plan to

Does the first verb need “ing”?

Example: enjoy learning, avoid making, finish reading

Is there a modal verb?

Example: can go, should study, must leave

Is there a preposition before the verb?

Example: interested in learning, good at writing

Is the sentence showing purpose?

Example: I came to help.

Is the verb “let” or “make”?

Example: let me go, made me laugh

Is the phrase “look forward to”?

Example: look forward to meeting

This checklist will help you catch many mistakes before they happen.

Common Beginner Questions About Infinitives

Can I Always Use “To + Verb” After Any Verb?

No. This is the main reason infinitive mistakes happen.

Correct: I want to study.

Incorrect: I enjoy to study.

Use “to + verb” only when the pattern allows it.

Is “To” Always Part Of An Infinitive?

No. Sometimes “to” is a preposition.

In “I want to learn,” the word “to” is part of an infinitive.

In “I look forward to learning,” the word “to” is a preposition.

That is why “learning” is correct after “look forward to.”

Why Do Native Speakers Say “Go Eat”?

In casual American English, “go + base verb” is common.

Let’s go see.

Let’s go talk.

It sounds natural in speech.

Is It Wrong To Split An Infinitive?

A split infinitive happens when a word comes between “to” and the verb.

to quickly finish

Some old grammar advice says not to split infinitives. But modern English often accepts split infinitives when they sound clear and natural.

She wants to really understand grammar.

This is common in everyday English. For grammar tests, however, focus more on choosing the correct verb form.

Is “Help Me To Do” Correct?

Yes. “Help” can use both forms.

Correct: Help me carry this.

Correct: Help me to carry this.

In American English, the shorter form often sounds more natural.

Your Takeaway On The Misuse Of The Infinitive

The misuse of the infinitive is one of the most common grammar mistakes because infinitives look simple, but they follow patterns.

You now know that “to + verb” is not always correct. Sometimes you need a gerund. Sometimes you need a bare infinitive. Sometimes you need a that-clause. Sometimes “to” is not an infinitive marker at all, but a preposition.

Here are the most important patterns again:

want to learn

need to practice

plan to study

hope to improve

enjoy learning

finish reading

suggest trying

should listen

make me laugh

came to help

too tired to walk

strong enough to lift

If you remember these patterns, you will fix a large number of infinitive mistakes.

The best way to master Common Grammar Mistakes » English grammar test 1: Misused forms – Misuse of the Infinitive is not to memorize every rule at once. The best way is to read examples, practice short quizzes, correct your mistakes, and repeat the patterns until they feel normal.

Every strong English speaker once made beginner mistakes. Nobody starts with perfect grammar. The difference is practice.

So the next time you write a sentence like “I enjoy to learn,” stop for one second. Look at the word before the verb. Ask yourself what pattern it needs.

Then fix it:

That tiny correction is a big step toward better English.

Now you are ready to take an English grammar test on misused forms and the misuse of the infinitive. Read each sentence carefully. Watch the word before the verb. Choose the correct pattern. And do not be surprised when your score improves, because now you know what the infinitive is doing behind the scenes.