Link List

“I think so” vs. “I think …”

Quick Explanation

Use I think so to answer a yes/no idea without repeating the full sentence.
Spanish tip: “Creo que sí” → “I think so.”
Use I think + clause before a full sentence (a clause). Don’t put “so” before a clause.
✅ I think (that) it’s going to rain.   ❌ I think so it’s going to rain.
Negative: I don’t think so (short yes/no). For a clause, use I don’t think + clause.
✅ I don’t think so.   ✅ I don’t think (that) he’s home.   (Formal: “I think not.”)
More Examples
  • “Is the store open?” — “I think so.” (Yes/no idea)
  • “What time does it open?” — “I think it opens at nine.” (Clause)
  • “Are they coming?” — “I don’t think so.” (Negative short answer)
  • “Will it rain?” — “I think it will.” / “I think so.” (Both OK; second avoids repeating)
  • Spanish interference to avoid: ❌ “I think so it’s late.” → ✅ “I think it’s late.”

Rule of thumb: If a full sentence follows, use I think + (that) + clause. If you’re answering a yes/no idea and don’t want to repeat the sentence, use I think so.

Multiple Choice — Choose the best answer (10)

True / False — Decide if the statement is correct (10)

Completion — Type the best phrase (10)

Type only the missing phrase (e.g., I think so, I think (that), I don’t think so, etc.). Capitalization and minor punctuation don’t matter.

Dialogue (20 lines)

Marta: Is the picnic still on for Saturday?

Jalen: I think so. The weather looks okay.

Marta: My cousin says it might rain. She said, “Lloverá.”

Jalen: If you want a full sentence, say, “I think it’s going to rain,” not “I think so it’s going to rain.”

Marta: Right—I think it’s going to rain. But the forecast changed.

Jalen: So, are we canceling?

Marta: I don’t think so. The park has a shelter.

Jalen: Good. Is Leo bringing a grill?

Marta: I think so. He messaged in the group chat.

Jalen: Is Daniela vegetarian?

Marta: I think she is. Let’s bring veggie burgers.

Jalen: Do we need extra chairs?

Marta: I don’t think so; the park has benches.

Jalen: And what about charcoal?

Marta: I think Leo has some. I’ll text him.

Jalen: Is the shelter first-come, first-served?

Marta: I think so. Let’s arrive early.

Jalen: Should we bring umbrellas just in case?

Marta: I think that’s smart.

Jalen: Great—so plan stays the same. I think so!

Notice: short yes/no → I think so. Full sentence → I think + clause. Negative short answer → I don’t think so.