English — gerund or infinitive

When one verb follows another, English chooses between the -ing form and to + verb — and the choice depends on the first verb.

How it works

✓ Rule

After enjoy, finish, avoid, mind → use -ing: I enjoy reading. After want, hope, decide, need → use to + verb: I want to read. After a preposition, always use -ing: good at cooking, before leaving.

The patterns

pattern → example
Pattern	Example
verb + -ing	I enjoy reading.
verb + to	I want to read.
preposition + -ing	She's good at drawing.
to (purpose)	I came here to learn.

Good to know

⚠ Note

A few verbs take either form with a change of meaning: stop doing (quit) vs stop to do (pause in order to); remember/forget/try also shift. After like, love, hate both forms are usually fine.

Unlock the AI assistant

The Learning Studio creates materials generated just for you — on any topic. Available on paid plans.

Readings and dialogues on any topic — e.g. your hobby

Listening texts and flashcards matched to your level

A glossary and questions for every material

See plans

Chatting with Carrotta is always free.

How do you want to learn today?

Step 2 · Topic

What should the material be about?

Pick a suggestion or type any topic.

Carrotta will prepare it in seconds · uses 5 tokens