What are the 36 helping verbs

The term “36 helping verbs” is an extended list used in some teaching methods. It includes:

• Forms of be, have, do
• Modal verbs
• Some additional commonly used auxiliary-like expressions

However, in standard grammar, only 23 helping verbs are officially recognized. The list of 36 is mainly for expanded learning.

Extended List of 36 Helping Verbs

Forms of “Be” (8)

1. am
2. is
3. are
4. was
5. were
6. be
7. being
8. been

Forms of “Have” (3)

1. have
2. has
3. had

Forms of “Do” (3)

1. do
2. does
3. did

Modal Verbs (9)

1. can
2. could
3. may
4. might
5. must
6. shall
7. should
8. will
9. would

Additional Common Auxiliaries / Semi-modals (13)

1. ought (to)
2. need (to)
3. dare (to)
4. used (to)
5. is going (to)
6. am going (to)
7. are going (to)
8. was going (to)
9. were going (to)
10. has to
11. have to
12. had to
13. being able to

How they are used

• She is going to school.
• He has to work hard.
• They can solve the problem.

Important Clarification

• 23 helping verbs → standard and widely accepted
• 36 helping verbs → extended/teaching-based list

Practical Insight

Focus first on:

• Forms of be, have, do
• Core modal verbs

These cover most real-life grammar usage.