What I Used to Do
Past Habits
Used to
'Used to' expresses the idea that something we did regularly in the past is no longer true. It is generally used in the positive form to discuss past habits and routines that we no longer have. 'Used to' can also express a state that is no longer true. 'Used to' is conjugated in the simple past tense, make sure to use the infinitive form in questions and negatives.
Example:
The chains used to be behind the counter.
Frank used to create quality standards for IBM.
BUT
Did they use to fish daily in this lake?
Did they use to stock preserved foods in this department?
Would
'Would do' refers to habitual past actions as well. It is more formal than 'used to'. The use of 'would' in questions and negative sentences can easily be misunderstood in a conditional sense, and should therefore be avoided.
Example:
The pastry chef would telephone when he had a problem.
Alex would eat a burger when he wanted fried foods.
Difference Between 'Used to' and 'Would'
'Used to' can refer to a state or ability as well as habits or routines.
Example:
The chains used to be behind the counter.
'Would' refers only to past actions.
Example:
The pastry chef would telephone when he had a problem.