English grammar › A1
Present simple
Level A1 · I work · she works
What is the present simple?
The present simple talks about things that are usually true: habits, routines and facts. It does not mean “right now”.
When you use it
- Daily routines: I get up at seven.
- Facts: Water boils at 100 °C.
- Likes and opinions: She likes tea.
Pattern
I / you / we / they + verb · he / she / it + verb-s
Examples
- I **work** in a bank. — a routine
- She **works** from home. — he / she / it adds -s
Watch out: The most common mistake is forgetting the -s: not “he play”, but he plays.
The rule
Use the present simple for habits and facts. With he / she / it, add -s: she works.
I → she: I live in London. → She lives in London.
Tip
Spelling: watch → watches, go → goes, study → studies, have → has.
Important
Negatives and questions use do / does + the base verb: She doesn't like tea. Does he work here?
Common mistakes
- Not:
He like football.— But: He likes football. - Not:
She doesn't likes tea.— But: She doesn't like tea.
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