Verb tenses - Future Continuous

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How to form it: There are two variations for forming this tense. The meaning is the same or very similar for both variations.

1. (will be) + (verb+ing). Example: We’ll be stopping in London on our way to Prague.
2. (am/is/are) + (going to be) + (verb+ing). Example: We’re going to be throwing a surprise party for Lisa

THE BIG PICTURE:
Use this tense to:

1. Describe a particular moment in the future: Example: We will be playing soccer at 11AM tomorrow.


2. Describe an action interrupted in the future:

NOTE: When forming questions, use “shall” instead of “will” for (I/we) sentences. Examples:
I’ll be working in my garden when you arrive. The students will be washing cars tomorrow until the sun goes down.

3. Describe an action that will occur more than once in the future:


• Jim will be returning to the physical therapist until he’s completely cured.
• Donna will be taking her heart medication for the rest of her life.


4. Describe parallel action in the future (note: in this case, put the verb in the first clause in the future continuous tense and the verb in the second clause in the present continuous tense):
   
   Examples:
• We’ll be making the guest list for the wedding while you’re trying to find a caterer.
• After the party, Tracy will be washing the dishes while Mike is cleaning the floor.


5. Describe an intention or plan in the future, especially when the timing is vague. Example: We’re going to be organizing a surprise party for Betsy.

NOTE: Do not use the future continuous tense with clauses that begin “before” “after” while,” “when,” “if” and “unless.” The verb in these clauses should be in the present tense. (Examples: When Bob calls, tell him I’m in the shower. While you’re in France, please pick up an Eiffel Tower souvenir for me).