Using Simple Present Tense

The simple present tense is used to indicate actions that we often/usually/always/never/seldom do. It can be used with phrases such as every day/morning/afternoon/etc. Examples:

We often have fried rice for lunch every day. They usually visit their aunt in the evening.
The children always brush their teeth after meal. She never reads before going to bed.

In "yes" or "no" questions

Do the children always brush their teeth after meal? Yes, they do. / No, they do not/don't.
Does Sharon go to the library every weekend? Yes, she does. / No, she does not/doesn't.

When using the simple present tense, make sure you use present tense verbs, and you must also pay attention to subject-verb agreement. If the subject is the 3rd person, singular verbs must be used.
Example: He/She/Jane/My sister plays (correct) play (incorrect) badminton every afternoon. If the subject is I/You/We/They/Jane and Tom/My sisters, never use singular verbs.
Example:
I/You/We/They/Jane and Tom/My sisters play (correct) plays (incorrect) tennis every evening.

The simple present tense is also used to show an action that is a habit. Examples:
The girls always brush their teeth before going to bed. (brush is the present tense verb)
Teresa always locks the doors and windows before she leaves. (locks is the present tense verb)

The simple present tense is also used to indicate that something is true. Examples:
Butterflies fly. (fly is the present tense verb)
Tortoises crawl. (crawl is the present tense verb)

The simple present tense is also used to give commands, orders or instructions. Examples:
Come here at once! (come is the present tense verb)
Please switch off the lights. (switch is the present tense verb)
Write the answers in the space provided. (write is the present tense verb)
Answer these questions in complete sentences. (answer is the present tense verb)

The simple present tense is also used in sentences that involve the future perfect tense.
Peter will have done all his homework by the time his parents return home.


Click on "grammar" or References to view the future perfect tense and find out how the simple present tense is used in future perfect tense sentences.


By Susan L
On 12/11/2009 05:12:00 PM
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