Grammar basics
Present simple
Use the present simple for habits, facts and things that are always true. It is the most common tense in English.
Structure
| Sentence | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Positive | Subject + V1 (+s/es) | She works from home. |
| Negative | Subject + do/does + not + V1 | She doesn't work on Sundays. |
| Question | Do/Does + subject + V1? | Does she work from home? |
With I, you, we and they, use do and the plain verb: I work, they don't work. With he, she and it, add -s to the verb and use does: he works, he doesn't work.
Only one -s
After does or doesn't, the verb has no -s: Does she work?, not Does she works?
When to use
Habits and routines
I drink coffee every morning.
Facts and things that are always true
Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
Schedules and timetables
Our team meeting starts at 10 a.m.
States and feelings
Use the present simple with stative verbs like know, like and want.
I know Python, but I don't know Rust.
Thai speakers, don't forget the -s
In Thai, เขาทำงาน and ฉันทำงาน use the same verb. In English, the verb changes: I work, but he works. This is one of the most common mistakes for Thai learners.
Time words
These words often go with the present simple. See more on the adverbs of frequency page.
Always
At all times, every time.
I always test my code before I push it.
Usually
Most of the time, but not every time.
I usually study English after dinner.
Every day
On each day, with no days missed.
I write a few lines of code every day.