Definition / Explanation
The present simple is one of the most common tenses in English. We use it for routines, habits, repeated actions, and facts that are generally true. For example, it is natural in sentences about daily life, work, and regular schedules. At A1 level, it is important to learn the affirmative form first and use it confidently.
Key Rules
- Use the base verb with I, you, we, they: I work, they live.
- Use the present simple for habits and routines: I get up at 7.
- Use it for facts and general truths: Water boils at 100°C is a later, more complex example; at A1, use simple facts like Cats like milk.
- Time expressions like every day, on Mondays, and in the morning are common.
- With he/she/it, use the special form with -s. That is the next topic.
Examples
- I go to school by bus.
- We play tennis on Saturday.
- They live near the station.
- You work very hard.
- I drink tea every morning.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ I goes to work at 8. -> ✅ I go to work at 8.
- ❌ We plays football on Sunday. -> ✅ We play football on Sunday.
- ❌ She work in a bank. -> ✅ She works in a bank.