Explanations › A1 Grammar Explanations › Present simple – affirmative, negative, questions

Present simple – affirmative, negative, questions

Exercises Explanation Downloads

  • Present simple form

    In present simple verbs, we need to use the verb do/does in questions and don’t/doesn’t in negatives.

    Grammar infographic showing the structure of the Present Simple tense in English, including positive forms, negative forms, questions, and short answers for A1 elementary learners.

    Download full-size image from Pinterest

    Our dictionary entry on do explains why ‘Does she works?’ is incorrect.

    Spelling of he/she/it

    The form is the same for all the other persons except he/she/it. The spelling for he/she/it is different.

    Grammar chart demonstrating Present Simple tense spelling rules for third-person singular subjects (he, she, it) with examples of verb conjugations and common mistakes.

    Download full-size image from Pinterest

    For common spelling errors such as ‘studys’ instead of ‘studies’, see our dictionary entry on spelling.

    Present simple use

    Habits or actions that happen regularly

    We use present simple for habits or actions that we repeat regularly:

    • I wash my hair every day.
    • I never go to the library.
    • I go to the library on Saturdays.

    Permanent situations or things that are always or often true

    • I don’t drink coffee.
    • She’s very tall.
    • I have two brothers.
    • Water boils at 100 degrees.
    • I like soup.