Imperative Sentences Quiz
12 multiple-choice questions on imperative sentences in English — commands, instructions, polite requests, warnings, and negative imperatives. Levels A2 to B1.
This quiz checks how confidently you can apply Imperative Sentences at A2–B1 level, with questions built around real forms such as Open the door., Don't sit down., please, go and Don't be late. rather than abstract rule statements. Each question presents a full example sentence, so you have to judge which form fits the meaning and structure correctly instead of recalling a rule in isolation.
If a question catches you out, the FAQ section below explains the underlying rule in more detail, including common mistakes learners make with this point. Reviewing the explanation immediately after an incorrect answer, then retrying the quiz on a different day, builds more durable grammar knowledge than repeating the same 12 questions back to back.
Imperative Sentences — FAQ
What is an imperative sentence in English?
An imperative sentence gives a command, instruction, request, or warning. It uses the base form of the verb (infinitive without 'to') and usually has no stated subject — the subject 'you' is understood. Examples: 'Sit down.', 'Open the window.', 'Please be quiet.' Imperative sentences can end with a full stop or an exclamation mark depending on how forceful the instruction is.
How do you form a negative imperative in English?
Negative imperatives are formed with 'Don't' (or the more formal 'Do not') + the base form of the verb. Examples: 'Don't run in the corridor.', 'Do not touch the equipment.', 'Don't be late.' The word 'never' can also be used for stronger prohibition: 'Never leave the door unlocked.' Negative imperatives are used for prohibitions, warnings, and advice.
How do you make an imperative sentence more polite?
Add 'please' at the start or end of an imperative to make it more polite: 'Please sit down.' / 'Sit down, please.' You can also soften a command with 'Could you...?', 'Would you mind...?', or 'Would you like to...?' The emphatic 'do' before the verb adds encouragement: 'Do come in.' / 'Do help yourself.'
What is the difference between a command and a request?
A command (imperative) is a direct instruction: 'Close the door.' A request is more polite and often uses question forms or modal verbs: 'Could you close the door, please?' / 'Would you mind closing the door?' In everyday English, 'please' softens a command into a request: 'Please close the door.' The distinction depends on tone, context, and relationship between speakers.
Can imperatives be used with 'let'?
'Let's' (let us) + base verb is used to make suggestions including the speaker: 'Let's go!', 'Let's start the meeting.', 'Let's not argue.' This is sometimes called the inclusive imperative. 'Let him/her/them' + base verb expresses a command about a third person: 'Let her speak.' / 'Let them decide.' This form is more formal or literary.
How are imperatives used in recipes and instructions?
Imperatives are the standard form for recipes, manuals, instructions, and directions because they are direct and clear. In a recipe: 'Preheat the oven to 180°C.', 'Mix the flour and butter.', 'Bake for 30 minutes.', 'Leave to cool before serving.' In instructions: 'Press the power button.', 'Enter your password.', 'Click OK to confirm.' The subject 'you' is always implied.
What is the emphatic 'do' in imperatives?
Adding 'do' before a positive imperative adds emphasis or encouragement: 'Do try the cake!', 'Do be careful!', 'Do come in — I insist!' This emphatic 'do' is used when encouraging someone or contradicting a previous statement. It is more common in formal or older British English. In negative imperatives, 'do not' simply forms the prohibition: 'Do not enter.'
Can imperatives be used in formal writing?
Yes, but with care. Imperatives are natural in instructional, legal, and official texts: 'Sign here.', 'Return the form by Friday.', 'Do not enter without authorisation.' In academic writing, imperatives appear in methodology sections: 'Note that...', 'Consider the following...', 'See Figure 1.' In formal essays, direct commands are usually replaced by 'It is necessary to...' or 'One should...'
What are some common imperative phrases in everyday English?
Common everyday imperatives: 'Have a seat.', 'Help yourself.', 'Make yourself at home.', 'Take care.', 'Mind the gap.', 'Watch your step.', 'Keep in touch.', 'Hold on a moment.', 'Carry on.', 'Never mind.', 'Bear in mind that...', 'Look out!' (warning), 'Listen up!' (getting attention). Many fixed social phrases in English use the imperative form.
How do imperatives differ between British and American English?
The grammar of imperatives is the same in both varieties, but some fixed phrases differ. British English: 'Mind the gap', 'Queue here', 'Ring me later.' American English: 'Watch the gap', 'Stand in line here', 'Call me later.' Politeness norms differ slightly too — American English tends to use 'please' more frequently in service contexts, while British English relies more on rising intonation to soften commands.