W-questions step by step
W-Fragen systematisch
Choose the right German question word for a person, thing, place, time, manner or reason and build the question in the correct order.
A W-question asks for specific information. Choose the question word by the missing information: wer = who, was = what, wo = where, wann = when, wie = how/what … called, warum = why. The conjugated verb normally comes directly after it: Wann beginnt die Schicht?
Was brauchen Sie?
What do you need?
Wo ist der Eingang?
Where is the entrance?
Wann beginnt die Schicht?
When does the shift start?
Wie heißt die Straße?
What is the street called?
Warum sind Sie hier?
Why are you here?
First decide what information is missing. Then choose wer, was, wo, wann, wie or warum and place the conjugated verb immediately after it.
These six question words cover everyday needs: identifying a person, asking for an object, finding a place, checking a time, asking a name, and asking for a reason.
Do not copy English word order. German says “Wann beginnt die Schicht?”, not “Wann die Schicht beginnt?” in a direct question.
Missing person → wer; thing → was; place → wo; time → wann; way/name → wie; reason → warum.
Ask six questions about one workplace, using each question word exactly once.