Present simple
Definition
The present simple describes routines, repeated events, general facts and situations presented as stable. With he, she and it, affirmative verbs normally take -s or -es.
base verb (+ -s / -es for he/she/it)
Examples
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I take the bus to work every morning.
The sentence describes a regular routine.
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Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
The sentence states a general fact.
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Leila works in a small design studio.
The job is presented as a stable present situation.
Present simple vs. present continuous
Sam works in Madrid.
The job is presented as a normal or stable situation.
Sam is working in Madrid this month.
The situation is presented as temporary.
Works describes what is generally true. Is working focuses on a temporary situation around the present.
It can refer to scheduled future events
The present simple can describe future events controlled by a timetable, programme or fixed schedule.
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The train leaves at 6:20 tomorrow morning.
The departure time comes from a schedule.
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The course ends next Friday.
The ending date is fixed by the programme.
Common mistakes
She walk to work every day.
She walks to work every day.
Third-person singular affirmative verbs normally take -s.
He doesn't likes coffee.
He doesn't like coffee.
After doesn't, use the base verb without -s.
Quick check
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence correctly describes a routine?
The third-person singular subject Nora takes checks.Which negative sentence is correct?
With they, use don't + base verb: don't live.Which question is formed correctly?
A third-person singular question uses does + subject + base verb.Nice work — you've completed the quick check.
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