Simple Present

The Present Simple tense is a fundamental English tense used to express general truths, habits, routines, and thoughts. It is one of the most commonly used tenses in English, essential for expressing facts and regular actions.

When to Use the Present Simple

1. Habitual Actions

The Present Simple is used to talk about actions or habits that are regular and occur on a frequent basis.

Example:

I drink coffee every morning.

2. General Truths

This tense is used to state general truths or laws of nature.

Example:

The sun rises in the east.

3. Fixed Arrangements

Although it might seem counterintuitive, the Present Simple can also describe scheduled events in the near future, especially in timetables or programs.

Example:

The train leaves at 8:45 PM tonight.

4. Thoughts and Feelings

The Present Simple is used to express thoughts and feelings which are not limited to the present moment.

Example:

I think you are right.

5. Instructions and Directions

This tense is commonly used in giving instructions or directions.

Example:

You turn right at the traffic lights.

Forming the Present Simple

Positive Sentences

To form positive sentences, use the base form of the verb. Add -s or -es to the base form for third person singular (he, she, it).

Example:

She likes tea.

Negative Sentences

Form negative sentences in the Present Simple by using do not (don't) or does not (doesn't) followed by the base form of the verb.

Example:

He doesn’t like coffee.

Questions

Form questions by placing do or does at the beginning of the sentence, followed by the subject and the base form of the verb.

Example:

Do you like movies?

Common Time Expressions

Certain time expressions are often used with the Present Simple. These include:

• Always
• Usually
• Often
• Sometimes
• Never
• Every day (week, month, year)

Examples:

I always do my homework after school.
She never eats after 7 PM.

Key Points to Remember

• The Present Simple is not used to describe actions happening right now. For ongoing actions, use the Present Continuous.
• Pay attention to verb conjugation in the third person singular, which typically adds -s or -es.
• Remember the different uses of do/does in forming negatives and questions.