Giving instructions

Imperative form in  english

We use the imperative form to give orders,

warnings and advice:

Be quiet!

Take care!

Listen to me carefully!

¢Because it can sound rude to give direct orders (especially if you are talking to an adult), we "soften" the imperative form with "let's" or "please":

Let's go now.

¢Please listen to what I'm saying.

Use a modal verb to turn the order into a request in english

Could: Could you make me some tea?

¢Can: Can you come here please?

¢Will: Will you shut the door please?

¢Would: Would you wait here until the doctor is ready for you? 

Use an introductory phrase to soften the order is english

Would you mind possibly… (+ ing) (Most indirect)

¢Would you mind possibly moving your car? It's parked right in front of mine.

¢I was hoping you could … (+ infinitive without to)

¢I was hoping you could spare me a few minutes this morning.

¢Do you think you could … (+ infinitive without to)

¢Do you think you could do this photocopying for me?

¢I'd like you to…