Imperatives: Open / Don't / Let's
An imperative tells someone what to do. Start with the base verb.
One step at a timeRules
Rule 1: Do it! → base verb first
We usually don't say you. The base verb goes first — no -s, no -ing, no to. Add please to be polite.
Pattern: Verb + … (+ please)
Example: Clap your hands!
Example: Tidy your room, please.
Rule 2: Don't do it! → Don't + verb
To tell someone not to do something, put Don't before the verb. It is always Don't, never Doesn't.
Pattern: Don't + verb
Example: Don't jump on the bed!
Example: Don't forget your lunch box.
Rule 3: Let's do it! → Let's + verb
Use Let's (= let us) to suggest doing something together. The base verb comes after it. Don't forget the apostrophe: Let's.
Pattern: Let's + verb
Example: Let's build a snowman!
Example: Let's play hide and seek.
Rule 4: Let's not do it → Let's not
To suggest not doing something, say Let's not + verb. (“Let's don't” is not standard English!)
Pattern: Let's not + verb
Example: It's late. Let's not watch TV.
Example: Let's not tell anyone. It's a surprise!
Common mistakes
You open the door.→ Open the door.Don't say you in an imperative.
Doesn't run!→ Don't run!Always Don't.
Lets go!→ Let's go!Let's needs an apostrophe (let us).
Position 18 of 19 topics at Pre-A1.