My Brief English Tips: Gerund vs. Infinitive Verbs

Hello Everyone!

When I began talking and writing in English I encountered challenges in using infinitive and gerund verb in English. Consequently, I decided to study and practice the various ways it.  So, I've decided to share what I've learned with you.

• A verb in gerund form (ending in -ing) focuses on the action itself.
• A verb in infinitive form (to + verb) doesn’t focus on the action but rather on the possibility or intention of performing it.
• Verbs often take the infinitive form when preceded by certain verbs, such as "want," "try," or "need."
• Additionally, when a verb follows a preposition, it typically appears in the gerund form.
• Modal verbs (like "can," "must," "should") are followed directly by the base form of the verb (without "to").

Summary:

Situation	Verb Form	Example
After verbs (ex: want, need, try)	Infinitive	I want to learn English.
Directly related to the action itself, be it an activity you enjoy, something you are currently doing, or a skill you possess.	Gerund	I like swimming.
After perception verbs (see, hear, feel)	Infinitive or gerund	I saw him leave/leaving.
After modal verbs (can, must, want)	Infinitive without "to"	I can swim.
Is not directly related to an action in progress, but rather to an idea, a goal, a desire or a possibility.	infinitive	It's easy to learn English.
verbs in a continuous sentence	gerund	I'm learning English
After prepositions	gerund	for,at,in...