presentsimple

The present simple is a verb tense used to describe actions that are habitual, general truths, and fixed arrangements. It can also refer to actions in the near future when talking about schedules or programs. In addition, it is used to express states such as emotions, possession, or inherent qualities.

Formation: For most verbs, use the base form for I/you/we/they and add -s or -es for he/she/it. The verb be is irregular (am/is/are). Negatives are formed with do not (don't) or does not (doesn't) plus the base form: I do not go; she does not go. Questions are formed with do/does at the beginning: Do you go? Does she go? Spelling notes: add -s or -es in the third person singular; -y changes to -ies after a consonant (fly → flies); verbs ending in -o, -ch, -s, -sh, -x often take -es (go → goes, fix → fixes).

Uses: Habitual actions (She walks to work). General truths (Water boils at 100°C). Fixed arrangements (The train leaves at nine). States and qualities (He owns a car). Instructions or directions (First you cut, then you fold).

Time expressions and placement: Adverbs of frequency (always, usually, often, sometimes, rarely, never) typically come before the main verb, e.g., She usually goes to the gym. Be is used with frequency adverbs as in They are often late.

Comparison and limits: The present simple contrasts with the present continuous, which describes actions in progress now or around now. The present simple can also refer to scheduled future events, especially in timetables, while the present continuous often describes planned future actions.