Present SimpleSo, you have learned how to use the present simple with non-action verbs, now you need to learn how, why and when we use the present simple.
When we use the present simple
We use the Present Simple to describe habits / routines and facts / generalizations.
Even though we use the present continuous to speak about actions which are happening in the present time, they may not be occurring at the exact time of speaking. Don’t confuse the present simple with the present continuous.
Present Simple Form
AFFIRMATIVE FORM
- I / You / We / They + V1
- He / She / It + V1 + S**
**If a verb ends with a consonant + ‘y,’ delete ‘y’ and add ‘ies’:
- fly > flies
- cry > cries
1. Habit / Routine
- I teach English everyday.
- You do homework in the afternoon.
- She does homework in the evening.
- The class begins at 11:00.
2. Facts or Generalizations
- She likes Pepsi.
- Americans drive big cars.
- The teachers teach in the morning.
- Miami is in Florida.
NEGATIVE FORM
We can also use the Present Simple in a negative form by using DON’T/DOESN’T
- I / You / We / They + DO NOT + VERB (DON’T)
- He / She / It + DOES NOT +VERB (DOESN’T)
- I don’t teach English everyday.
- She doesn’t do homework in the evening.
- The class doesn’t begin at 11:00.
- She doesn’t like Pepsi.
When the verb BE is used, we use a different form.
- I + AM NOT
- He / She / It + IS NOT (ISN’T)
- You / We / They + ARE NOT (AREN’T)
- I am not a doctor.
or - I’m not a doctor.
- He isn’t in school today.
or - He’s not in school today.
- You aren’t an astronaut.
or - You’re not an astronaut.
Now it’s your turn to try to use the present simple in some sentences. Please try to write some sentences and use the present simple tense. You can email me or write in the comments section below.
If you have any questions, please ask! Download this FREE English lesson and do some present simple exercises by clicking here.
Have a nice day! #TurnYourLanguageOn
Do you need to improve your English? See the locations of our english language schools in the United States.
