Key Difference

In formal English, the choice between “shall” and “will” is traditionally linked to person (the subject of the sentence) and level of formality.

• “Shall” is typically used with the first person (I/we) for expressing future actions in a more formal or polite way.
• “Will” is more common with second and third persons (you, he/she/they) and is also widely used for all persons in modern, less formal speech.

Structured Breakdown

1. Using “Shall”

In formal English, “shall” is used:

• With I or we to talk about something that is certain or decided in the future.
• To offer help or make polite suggestions.

Examples:

• “I shall attend the meeting tomorrow.” (This is certain and formal.)
• “Shall we go for a walk?” (A polite suggestion.)

Here, “shall” sounds more formal and can feel slightly old-fashioned. However, it’s still appropriate in contracts, legal documents, or formal speech.

2. Using “Will”

“Will” is much more flexible and commonly used:

• To indicate future actions or decisions for all subjects (I, you, he, she, they).
• In promises, decisions made at the moment, and strong determinations.

Examples:

• “She will start her new job next week.” (Future action.)
• “I will help you with your homework.” (A decision made now.)
• “They will not tolerate that behavior.” (Determination.)

In modern English, “will” has mostly replaced “shall” in everyday speech, even with I and we, because it sounds more natural.

Special Uses of “Shall” in Formal Situations

While “shall” is less common today in regular conversation, it’s still important in legal, official, and contractual contexts. In these cases, “shall” is often used to indicate a duty or obligation.

Example:

• “The tenant shall pay rent on the first of every month.” (This indicates an obligation in a formal contract.)

Quick Summary of Usage:

• “Shall”: Formal, polite, often used with “I” and “we,” or for making suggestions and offers.
• “Will”: Common, future tense, used for promises, predictions, and intentions across all subjects.

Common Mistakes and Tips

• ❌ Incorrect: “I will help you, shall I?”
  ✅ Correct: “Shall I help you?” (This is a polite offer.)
• ❌ Incorrect: “Shall he come with us tomorrow?” (Sounds overly formal in everyday English.)
  ✅ Correct: “Will he come with us tomorrow?”

📝 Practice Time:

Fill in the blanks with “shall” or “will”:

1. I ________ call you tomorrow after work.
2. We ________ meet at the restaurant at 7 p.m.
3. ________ we invite him to the meeting?
4. You ________ complete the assignment by Friday. (obligation)

✅ Answers:

1. I will call you tomorrow after work.
2. We shall meet at the restaurant at 7 p.m.
3. Shall we invite him to the meeting?
4. You shall complete the assignment by Friday. (formal obligation)

🌟 Learning Tip:

A good way to remember the traditional rule is: “Shall” for I/we (formal or polite) and “Will” for everyone else. But in modern English, “will” is your go-to choice for most situations!