Learn about the Present Simple
We use the Present Simple for ...
1. Present States - something true for a long time (usually a feeling, not an action).
I like cake.
2. Present Habits - a repeated action (with often, sometimes, every day, every week ...)
I eat cake every day.
| Positive(+) | Negative(-) | Question(?) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| I You We They | You like it. | You don't like it. | Do you like it? |
| He She It | He likes it. | He doesn't like it. | Does he like it? |
Time expressions with present simple
When you are using present simple for repeated habits, you must remember to say how often it happens.
- I often go to the cake shop.
- I go to the cake shop three times a week.
When we only use one word (never, rarely, sometimes, often, usually, always), it comes before the verb. When we use more than one word (every week, four times a month) it comes at the end of the sentence.
Other uses of Present Simple
Facts - we believe it always happens and will always be true.
The sun rises in the east.
'Scheduled' future events - something which we can see in a timetable (here a film guide).
The film starts at 6pm.
(The teacher likes presents, especially chocolate ...)
Present Simple practice Next Lesson: Past Simple