Suggestions and advice: reference 	

Tentative suggestions	Stronger advice	Strong advice 	
You / we could (always)...	You / we should...	You'd /we'd better...	
Why don't you / we... 	You / we ought to	Do... (imperative) 	
Have you thought of...*	If you'll take my advice, you'll...	Don't...(negative imperative)	
How about...* 		Whatever you do, don't...	
If I were you I would...			
I'd...			
I wouldn't .... (if I were you)			
Formal / written forms			
I suggest that we / you **			

* followed by verb in the -ing form 
** Note the form 'I suggest you to...' is a common error 

Examples

Match the advice with the situations below

What can I get Mandy for her birthday?
	
I've got this terrible pain in my chest and I feel dizzy.
	
Look at these shoes! I only bought them last month and the heel's falling off already.
	
My boss keeps smoking in the office. My brother said I ought to report him.
	
 Look! There's smoke coming out of the washing machine! What shall I do?
	
You'd better lie down.
You ought to take them back.
Have you thought of getting her some perfume?
Turn the electric off at the mains. 
I wouldn't do that - he might give you the sack!
Whatever you do, don't touch it.
You'd better see a doctor immediately.
I'd just get her some flowers.	
Why don't you get her a gift voucher?