The Informal Future: Ir + a + infinitive

In Spanish, one of the most common ways to talk about the future is the 'informal future'. It's used to describe plans, intentions, and things that are about to happen. You'll see it constantly in stories and conversations.

The Main Rule: The Formula

The structure is simple and has three parts:

Correct form of the verb 'ir' + a + infinitive verb

1. Start with the verb ir (to go) and conjugate it in the present tense to match the subject:

   • yo -> voy
   • tú -> vas
   • él/ella/usted -> va
   • nosotros/as -> vamos
   • vosotros/as -> vais
   • ellos/ellas/ustedes -> van

2. Add the preposition a.

3. Add the main action verb in its infinitive form (the original, unconjugated verb ending in -ar, -er, or -ir).

Let's see it in action:

• I am going to eat. -> Yo voy a comer.
• She is going to travel. -> Ella va a viajar.
• We are going to read. -> Nosotros vamos a leer.

That's it! This structure is your key to talking about and understanding future plans in Spanish.