Summary
Structure
subject + past form (verb-ed / irregular past)
Examples
Common mistakes
Related
More tenses
Present Simple
A1
Use the present simple for facts, habits, routines, and things that are generally true. Add -s/-es to the verb with he, she, and it.
Present Continuous
A1
Use the present continuous for actions happening now, around the present time, or for temporary situations. It is also used for fixed future arrangements.
Future with 'Going To'
A2
Use 'going to' for plans and intentions decided before now, and for predictions based on present evidence.
Future with 'Will'
A2
Use 'will' for predictions, instant decisions made at the moment of speaking, promises, and offers.
Past Continuous
B1
Use the past continuous for an action in progress at a moment in the past, often interrupted by a shorter past simple action, or for two parallel ongoing actions.
Present Perfect
B1
Use the present perfect to connect a past action to the present — for life experiences, recent changes, and unfinished time periods. The exact time is not stated.