Some verbs are followed by ing, e.g. I enjoy swimming. We can't say I enjoy to swim. Likewise, some verbs are followed by to, e.g. I decided to make a plan.
Which particular verbs are followed by ing and to? Can you please provide a list for that?
Moreover, which verbs can be followed by both without having the meaning changed?
Best Answer
You can find such a list, for instance, in the Penguin Handbook.
The only way to know is to memorize which verbs are followed by gerunds and which are followed by infinitives. The relevant categories are:
Verbs Followed by Infinitives
Most verbs are followed by infinitives. If the verb is not found in the list below, it is probably followed by an infinitive.
Verbs Followed by Gerunds
The verbs in the following table all need to be followed by gerunds.
Verbs Followed by an Object Before the Infinitive Verb
*Some words can be used without an object as well as with an object.
Verbs Followed by Either Gerund or Infinitive
Sometimes the meaning changes according to the verb used.
Verbs Followed Only by the Simple Form (no “-ing” or “to”)
Four verbs are called causative verbs. They are followed by an object; the verb after the object is always in the simple form:
Verbs Followed by Either the Simple Form or the Gerund (no “to”)
Some verbs are called verbs of perception and are followed by either the simple form or the “-ing” form.
Others including: look at, observe, listen to, feel, smell.