Language
English
Level
A2
Unit
Verb tenses and forms
Practice types
0

What this grammar point covers

The present simple is a verb tense in English. It describes things that are always true, happen regularly, or are facts.

When to use it

Use the present simple for habits, routines, facts, and things that are always true.

Key forms

  • I/You/We/They + base verb (e.g., I work)
  • He/She/It + base verb + -s (e.g., She works)
  • Negative: do/does + not + base verb (e.g., I do not work, He does not work)
  • Question: Do/Does + subject + base verb? (e.g., Do you work? Does he work?)

Examples

I live in London.

She plays tennis every Saturday.

The sun rises in the east.

We do not eat meat.

Tips

  • Remember to add -s or -es to the verb for he, she, and it.
  • Do not use the present simple for actions happening now.
  • Use 'do' or 'does' for negatives and questions.

Exceptions and edge cases

  • Some verbs are irregular in spelling, for example: 'have' becomes 'has' in he/she/it.
  • With verbs ending in -y after a consonant, change -y to -ies (e.g., study → studies).

Verify this grammar point in English reference sources

Cross-check the rule and examples in established native references. Each link opens in a new tab.

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