English grammar: Present simple

What this grammar point covers

The present simple is a verb tense in English used to talk about habits, facts, and regular actions.

When to use it

Use the present simple to talk about things that happen regularly, facts, general truths, and routines.

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., He does not work)
• Question: Do/Does + subject + base verb? (e.g., Does she work?)

Examples

Tips

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

Exceptions and edge cases

• Some verbs have irregular spelling in the third person (e.g., 'go' becomes 'goes', 'have' becomes 'has').