Simple Present

Use of the Simple Present:

We use the Simple Present to talk about an action that happens frequently (a habit) over a long period of time. We also use the Simple Present to talk about something which is always true. The present simple is very often found together with the following adverbs of frequency: never, sometimes, usually, always, etc.

  •  repeated actions

My friend often goes to play football.

  • things in general

The sun rises in the east.

  •  fixed arrangements, scheduled events

The plane flies to Rome every Monday.

  • sequence of actions in the present

First I get up, then I have a shower.

  • instructions

Open your books at page 72.

Key words

  • Every day
  • Often
  • Always
  • Sometimes
  • Never
  • Usually
  • Occasionally
Note important!   in the affirmative form the 3rd person he/she/it/ + S

Affirmative form

Long formsContracted forms
I play football.not possible
You play football.
He/she/it plays football.

Negative form

Note important! in the negative form the 3rd person he/she/it/ becomes does not or doesn’t.
Long formsContracted forms
I do not play football.I don’t play football.
You do not play football.You don’t play football.
He/she/it does not play football .He/she/it doesn’t play football.

Interrogative form

Note important!  in the interrogative the 3rd person he/she/it/ we use does.
Long formsContracted forms
Do I play football?not possible
Do you play football?
Does he/she/it play football?