How do I know when to use V+to+present simple, v+ gerund, or v+to+gerund?

Question

How do I know when to use V+to+present simple, v+ gerund, or v+to+gerund?

I look forward seeing you.

I look forward to see you.

I look forward to hearing from you.

I look forward to hear from you.

I like to skating.

I like to skate.

I like skating.

Are there any differences? Which one is correct and incorrect?

Thank you.

Answer 1

That is a very broad subject. try and to find online what are the differences between a to-infinitive phrase vs gerunds.

but here are some rules of thumb:

1. after a preposition only a gerund may follow and and not a to-infinitive. (unless that preposition is part of a phrasal verb).

2. the verb that precedes the phrase usually dictates what phrase would follow. want as in: I want to dance.

   or

   deny as in: he denied committing the crime

3. some verbs may be followed by both and thus change their meanings.

Remember as in:

• I remember going outside (an action that had already happened)
• I remember to go outside (an action to do in the future)

Answer 2

Correct:

I look forward to seeing you

I look forward to hearing from you

I like to skate OR I like skating

Sorry I can’t tell you the reason why, just what sounds right to me (native speaker).