计划

Using it is quite simple. To use it as a verb, put it before your action. For example, 我计划去北京 (I plan to go to Beijing). To use it as a noun, you often 'have' a plan. You would say 我有一个计划 (I have a plan). You can also 'make' a plan using the verb 做 (zuò). It is like building a Lego set. You have the pieces, and 计划 is the instruction manual.

Use it in the office when discussing projects. Use it with friends when organizing a dinner party. It is perfect for travel talk. If someone asks what you are doing this summer, start with 我计划.... It makes you sound like you have your life together. Even if you are just planning to sleep all day, it sounds more official this way.

Avoid using it for very spontaneous, split-second decisions. If you just decided to grab a coffee right now, don't use 计划. Use 想 (xiǎng) instead. Also, don't use it for 'destiny' or 'fate'. This is a human-made word. It is about logic and calendars, not the stars. If a plan is just a vague 'maybe', this word might feel a bit too heavy.

In China, planning is highly valued. Long-term goals are a big part of the culture. You will hear the government talk about 'Five-Year Plans' using this exact word. On a personal level, parents often have a 计划 for their children's education from birth. It reflects a culture that respects preparation. It is the opposite of 'winging it'.

In casual speech, you might hear 打算 (dǎsuàn). 打算 is the younger, more relaxed cousin of 计划. Use 打算 for lunch plans with friends. Use 计划 for your business proposal or a major life change. Another variation is 策划 (cèhuà), which is more about 'scheming' or 'creative planning' for an event. Stick with 计划 for your daily bread and butter.