The present simple (Simple Present) is a tense in English used to describe actions that are habitual, regular, or generally true. Here’s how to use it:
- For habitual actions: Use the present simple to talk about actions that happen regularly or repeatedly.
- Example: I drink coffee every morning.
- For general truths or facts: Use the present simple to state facts that are always true.
- Example: The sun rises in the east.
- For scheduled future events: Use the present simple for future events that are part of a timetable or schedule.
- Example: The train leaves at 7:00 p.m. tomorrow.
To form the present simple tense for regular verbs, use the base form of the verb (the infinitive without “to”):
- For third-person singular subjects (he, she, it), add -s or -es to the base form of the verb:
- I/you/we/they work.
- He/she/it works.
- For negative sentences and questions, use “do” or “does”:
- Negative: I do not work. He does not work.
- Question: Do you work? Does he work?
Here’s a basic summary:
- Affirmative: Subject + base form of the verb (+ -s/-es for third-person singular)
- Negative: Subject + do/does not + base form of the verb
- Question: Do/Does + subject + base form of the verb?
Keep in mind that there are irregular verbs in English that do not follow this pattern.