We use “I’ve decided to + verb” when we make a final decision about something. It shows that we thought about it and now we are sure.
For example, imagine you were thinking about changing your job. After many days of thinking, you say:
“I’ve decided to change my job.”
This structure is very common in daily English conversations. You can use it when talking about personal goals, travel plans, relationships, health, or career choices.
It sounds natural, confident, and clear. Native speakers use this structure when they want to show strong intention or commitment.
◎ Important Points
- Use “I’ve decided to” for final decisions.
- After to, always use the base form of the verb.
- Do not use past tense after to.
- You can use it for big or small decisions.
- It shows confidence and clarity.
- You can use it in both formal and informal conversations.
- The full form is I have decided, but “I’ve decided” sounds more natural in speaking.
➤Key Concept
✅Subject + have/has + decided + to + base verb
Example:
I’ve decided to start exercising.
Simple Explanation:
“I’ve decided” means the decision is already made. Now you are sure about it.
Speaking Tip:
Stress the word decided slightly when speaking to sound more confident.
➤ Common Mistakes To Avoid
| Common Mistake | Wrong Example | Correct Example |
|---|---|---|
| Using past verb after “to” | I’ve decided to went home. | I’ve decided to go home. |
| Forgetting “to” | I’ve decided start a business. | I’ve decided to start a business. |
| Using “decide” instead of “decided” | I’ve decide to learn English. | I’ve decided to learn English. |
| Using -ing form after “to” | I’ve decided to going abroad. | I’ve decided to go abroad. |
| Using double past | I decided to went there. | I decided to go there. |
➤ Examples
- I’ve decided to wake up early from tomorrow.
- I’ve decided to improve my English speaking skills.
- I’ve decided to stop eating junk food.
- I’ve decided to apply for that job.
- I’ve decided to talk to my manager about it.
- I’ve decided to move to another city.
- I’ve decided to save more money this year.
- I’ve decided to join a gym.
- I’ve decided to spend more time with my family.
- I’ve decided to start my own business.
➤ Practice Examples
A. Fill in the Blanks
- I’ve decided ___ learn Spanish.
- She’s decided to ___ (start) a new course.
- I’ve decided to ___ (wake) up earlier.
- We’ve decided to ___ (travel) this summer.
- He’s decided to ___ (change) his job.
B. Change the Incorrect Sentence to Correct One
- I’ve decided to went abroad.
- I’ve decide to improve myself.
- I’ve decided start a new diet.
- I’ve decided to going home.
- I’ve decided to bought a car.
C. Speak This Sentence Aloud
Say these sentences slowly and clearly:
- I’ve decided to improve my confidence.
- I’ve decided to change my daily routine.
- I’ve decided to take this opportunity.
- I’ve decided to believe in myself.
- I’ve decided to take action today.
