Present Simple

Start with meaning and form

Begin with the slides introducing the present simple. They describe its use for repetition, habits and generalizations, and introduce verb forms. The notes titled Present Simple also cover the structure and use of the tense. Together, these give you a starting point before you try questions.

For examples in sentences, look at the Present Simple slides that show affirmative and negative forms. Compare how the verb appears in each sentence, then use the examples as a guide while studying.

Use maps and flashcards

The mind map on the simple present tense brings together facts, habits, routines and scheduled actions. Another map organizes affirmative sentences, negative sentences and questions, including the changes to verbs with he, she and it. Use the maps to see how the ideas fit together after reading the slides or notes.

The Present Simple flashcards cover uses, conjugation, spelling, word order, negative contractions and questions. A separate flashcard deck on the simple present includes spelling examples for verbs ending in a consonant followed by y. These offer another way to study the forms shown in the maps.

Check your understanding

After looking at the forms, try the quiz on choosing do or does in questions. The Present Simple and Daily Routines quiz also asks about uses of the tense and adding s or es in the third person. Return to the relevant mind map when you want to check a form or use, then look again at the quiz questions.

Use the topic within the unit

Present Simple is a section of Verb Tenses Overview in English language. The slides, maps and quizzes on this page give you different ways to work through this section: read an explanation, organize its points and practice applying them. Pick a map and a quiz to work through together.