How to use Present Simple Tense
Most verbs in English are in the present simple tense. This tense is used to describe habits, unchanging situations, general truths, and fixed arrangements. The present simple is also used to describe future events that are scheduled or part of a timetable.
The present simple tense is formed by using the base form of the verb (the infinitive without to). For regular verbs, this is just the verb with no ending (I work). For irregular verbs, the base form is different from the infinitive (I have, he does).
The present simple is used with these time expressions:
- every + day/week/month/year
- never
- usually
- sometimes
- often
- always
We use the present simple to talk about permanent situations, for example, your job or where you live.
I live in New York.
He works in a bank.
The present simple is also used to talk about repeated actions and habits. We often use adverbs of frequency with these verbs.
I brush my teeth twice a day.
She never wears a seatbelt.
We use the present simple to talk about general truths. These are facts that are always true or opinions that are widely accepted.
The Earth goes around the Sun.
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
The present simple can also be used to describe future events that are scheduled or part of a timetable.
My train leaves at 8:00. The party starts at 7:30.
When deciding which tense to use, look at the time expression in the sentence. If there is a time expression that refers to the present or future, you will use the present simple