use of modals and conditionals

[Anonymous]

Dear Sir/Mdm,

I am very confused about the use of would and will.
Eg. If i could travel back to time, I would like to go back to the Jurassic Period. In cases like this where 'if' is used, is 'would' appropriate and how should i explain to my sister about this? How about will? When can i use it?

similarly, i am confused about could and can, might and may, should and shall.

[Tdol]

Try here:
http://www.usingenglish.com/articles...ditionals.html
http://www.usingenglish.com/glossary/conditionals.html

[MikeNewYork]

Dear Sir/Mdm,

I am very confused about the use of would and will.
Eg. If i could travel back to time, I would like to go back to the Jurassic Period. In cases like this where 'if' is used, is 'would' appropriate and how should i explain to my sister about this? How about will? When can i use it?

similarly, i am confused about could and can, might and may, should and shall.

Modals are very confusing. Much of that is due to their use for different meanings in different constructions. A good place to start is a good standard dictionary. Look up each form and study the lists of different uses. Usually, an example or two is also given.

Try www.dictionary.com