En

Present Simple

A1 (Beginner / Elementary)

Rule details

Present Simple

A1 (Beginner / Elementary)

1. How it is formed

Formula:

V (for I, you, we, they) / V + s (for he, she, it)

Example: I work / he works

Subject + verb in the infinitive without to, and in the 3rd person singular add -s/-es.

2. When to use

  • For regular, habitual actions.
  • For general truths and facts.
  • For schedules and timetables.
  • Often used with markers: every day, usually, often, sometimes, always.

3. Examples

Example 1 (regular action):

I go to the gym every morning.

Example 2 (general truth):

Water boils at 100°C.

Example 3 (schedule):

The train leaves at 7pm.

4. Differences from other tenses

Present Simple vs Present Continuous

Present Simple — regular actions or general facts. Present Continuous — actions happening right now or around the current period.

Example: I read books every day. I am reading a book now.

Present Simple vs Present Perfect

Present Simple — facts and habits. Present Perfect — actions completed by the present moment with a result.

Example: I live in London. I have lived in London for 3 years.

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