Present Simple
Learn how to use the present simple tense to talk about facts, habits, and routines.
The present simple tense is used to talk about facts, habits, routines, and things that are always true.
It is one of the most common tenses in English and is often the first tense that English language learners master.
The present simple is formed using the base form of the verb for I, you, we, and they, and by adding -s or -es for he, she, and it.
Rules
- Use the base form of the verb for I, you, we, they (e.g., I work, you work, we work, they work).
- Add -s or -es to the base form for he, she, it (e.g., he works, she works, it works).
- For verbs ending in -ch, -sh, -ss, -x, or -z, add -es (e.g., he watches, she washes, it passes).
- For verbs ending in consonant + y, change y to i and add -es (e.g., study → he studies).
- For verbs ending in vowel + y, just add -s (e.g., play → he plays).
Helpful Tips
- •Remember that the present simple is used for habits and routines, not for actions happening right now.
- •Use time expressions like 'always,' 'usually,' 'often,' 'sometimes,' 'rarely,' and 'never' with the present simple.
- •For questions, use 'do' or 'does' + subject + base form (e.g., Do you work? Does she work?).
- •For negatives, use 'do not' (don't) or 'does not' (doesn't) + base form (e.g., I don't work, She doesn't work).