To.. (I want to do) and -ing (I enjoy doing)

This lesson explains the difference between the to‑infinitive (to + base verb) and the gerund (verb + -ing). Both forms follow verbs, but they often express different meanings or follow different verbs. Learning which verbs are followed by to + infinitive and which take the -ing form helps you speak and write accurately in business contexts.

• To-infinitive (to + base verb) often expresses purpose, intention, desire, or future actions: I plan to submit the report.
• Gerund (-ing) often treats the verb as a noun (an activity) or follows certain verbs and prepositions: She enjoys preparing presentations.
• Some verbs can be followed by either form but with a change in meaning: 'stop + -ing' vs 'stop to + infinitive'.

Pay attention to the main verb: memorize common verb patterns and notice meaning changes with both forms.

Memorize verb patterns and apply simple checks:

• Use to + infinitive after verbs that express intention/decision/desire: want, decide, plan, hope, intend.
• Use -ing after verbs that describe preferences, experiences, or actions as nouns: enjoy, avoid, mind, suggest, recommend.
• After prepositions (including phrasal verbs) always use -ing: interested in hiring, responsible for organizing.
• Be careful: some verbs accept both forms with different meanings (e.g., remember, forget, stop, try).

When in doubt, check a reliable list of verb patterns and practice with example sentences.

Watch out for these universal errors learners often make:

• Using the wrong verb form after specific verbs (e.g., 'suggest to postpone' instead of 'suggest postponing').
• Using the infinitive after a preposition (incorrect: 'interested to work' — correct: 'interested in working').
• Confusing verbs that accept both forms but change meaning (forget, remember, stop, try).
• Omitting 'to' when it is required (incorrect: 'He wants go' — correct: 'He wants to go').

Focus on the verb that comes before the infinitive/gerund and learn common collocations to avoid errors.