"WH Questions" en Inglés: uso de "what"

The ability to formulate questions correctly in English is fundamental to maintain fluent conversations and obtain the information we need. WH questions are essential tools that allow us to structure questions effectively according to the type of information we are looking for. Mastering these structures will help you communicate more confidently and naturally in everyday situations.

How to use "what" to formulate questions in English?

"What" is an interrogative word that we use to ask for general information, especially related to things or actions. This word allows us to ask open questions that invite detailed answers, which makes it a perfect tool for starting conversations or getting to know other people better.

What is the correct structure for questions with "what" and the verb "to be"?

When we ask questions with "what" and the verb "to be", we must follow a specific structure:

1. "What" at the beginning of the question
2. Verb "to be" (am, is, are)
3. Subject
4. Question mark

Practical examples:

• What is your favorite food?
  • I love cheese
• What are your hobbies?
  • I like to play the guitar and watch movies
• What is your job?
  • I'm a teacher

These questions are very open-ended and general, perfect for starting conversations and getting to know the people we are talking to better.

How to ask questions with "what" and other action verbs?

When we want to ask questions with "what" and verbs other than the verb "to be", we need to use the auxiliaries "do" or "does". The structure is as follows:

1. "What" at the beginning
2. "Do" or "does" (depending on the subject)
3. Subject
4. Verb in base form (not conjugated)
5. Complement
6. Question mark

Practical examples:

• What does she drink?
  • She drinks coffee
• What do you eat for dinner?
  • I eat pizza
• What do you study?
  • I study marketing

It is important to remember that in questions, the main verb always goes in its base form (without the third person "s"), while in affirmative answers for the third person (he, she, it) we must add the "s".

How to choose the right interrogative word according to the context?

Selecting the right interrogative word depends on the type of information we are looking for. Each word has a specific purpose:

• When: to ask about time
  • When do you go to school?
• Where: to ask about location
  • Where does she work?
• Who: to ask about people
  • Who is your best friend?
• What: for general questions about information
  • What is your favorite color?

How to avoid common mistakes when asking questions?

A common mistake is to confuse when to use "do/does" and when it is not necessary. Remember: with the verb "to be" we do not need auxiliaries, while with other action verbs we must use "do" or "does".

Incorrect: What do is your job?Correct: What is your job?

Another common error is to use the conjugated form of the verb after "do/does":

Incorrect: What does she drinks?Correct: What does she drink?

Mastering these structures will allow you to formulate questions naturally and fluently, significantly improving your ability to communicate in English. Constant practice is key to internalize these rules and use them automatically in your daily conversations.

WH questions are powerful tools for obtaining specific information and maintaining interesting conversations in English. Which of these questions do you find most useful in your daily life? Share your experiences and practice asking your own questions in the comments section.