Definition / Explanation
Reported questions change a direct question into an embedded structure inside a reporting clause. The word order becomes the same as in a statement, so we do not use normal question inversion. Yes/no questions usually use if or whether, while information questions keep the original question word. The verb ask is common in this pattern, but other verbs such as wonder can also be used. The main challenge is changing both the word order and, when needed, the tense.
Key Rules
- Use ask, wonder, or a similar verb to introduce the reported question.
- For yes/no questions, use if or whether.
- For wh-questions, keep the wh-word: where, why, how, and so on.
- Use statement word order: He asked where I lived, not where did I live.
- Do not use do/does/did in reported questions unless it is part of the original meaning.
Examples
- She asked if I was ready.
- He asked where I lived.
- I wondered why they had left.
- They asked whether we could help.
- He asked what time the train arrived.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ She asked if was I ready. -> ✅ She asked if I was ready.
- ❌ He asked where did I live. -> ✅ He asked where I lived.
- ❌ They asked that we could help. -> ✅ They asked whether we could help.