How to identify and use simple present tense

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

What is the simple present tense?

The simple present tense is a way to talk about things that happen all the time or facts that are always true. We use it to talk about habits, routines, general truths, and fixed arrangements.

How to identify the simple present tense

Look for sentences that describe regular actions or general facts. They usually follow this pattern:

• Plural Subject + Base Form of the Verb (they, you, I, we, Tolu and Victoria)
• Singular Subject + Verb with -s or -es (for he, she, it)

The base form of a verb, also known as the root form, is the original form of the verb without any changes or endings. It’s like the verb in its simplest state, with no extra parts added.

For instance, verbs like run, enjoy, talk, giggle, hang, love, jump, clap, cuddle, scream, watch, travel, cough, sing, and others are all examples of verbs in their base form.

Examples:

1. I walk to school every day.
2. She walks to school every day.
3. They play soccer on weekends.
4. The sun rises in the east.

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When to use simple present tense

1. Habits or routines:

• Actions that happen regularly.
• Example: “She drinks coffee every morning.”

2. General truths:

• Facts that are always true.
• Example: “Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.”

3. Scheduled events:

• Events that are fixed and will happen in the future.
• Example: “The train leaves at 6 PM.”

4. Feelings and states:

• To express thoughts, feelings, and states of being.
• Example: “I think this is a good idea.”

NRTC English: Special uses of stative verbs

More examples in sentences:

• Habits: “He brushes his teeth twice a day.”
• General truths: “The Earth orbits the sun.”
• Scheduled events: “Our class starts at 9 AM.”
• Feelings and states: “She loves chocolate.”

Tips for using the simple present tense

1. Remember to add -s or -es for he, she, and it.
2. Use time expressions like always, usually, often, sometimes, and every day to show habits.

• Example: “They usually go to the park on Sundays.”

To get better at using the simple present tense, practice by writing about your daily routine or things you know are true. Speak out loud and listen to native speakers. With time, you will become more comfortable using the simple present tense correctly.