The simple present is a verb tense with two main uses. We use the simple present tense when an action is happening right now, or when it happens regularly (or unceasingly, which is why it’s sometimes called present indefinite). Depending on the person, the simple present tense is formed by using the root form or by adding ‑s or ‑es to the end.

The present simple tense isn’t always so “simple” for learners but I promise this explanation will make things much clearer. In the following details, we’ll look at the different uses of the present tense.

Present simple tense use #1: General truths & facts

We use the present simple to talk about things that are generally true or to state facts.

Examples:

• Smoking causes cancer.
• The sun rises in the east and sets in the west.
• Puppies are cute.
• The Danube River flows through Vienna, Austria.
• Five times five equals twenty-five.
• Babies eat, sleep and cry.
• Flowers need sunlight and water to grow.

Use #2: For mostly permanent situations

We use this tense to talk about situations that are mostly permanent, jobs or hobbies and things that always happen.

• • We live in California.
  • My father works at an elementary school.
  • I play tennis and basketball.
  • Accountants prepare tax returns.
  • Seamstresses sew, hem and repair clothing.
  • Racecar drivers drive fast.
  • Where do you work?
  • I don’t ride the bus. I take the metro to work.

Use #3:  To describe the frequency of actions

We use the present simple to describe how often we do things, from never to always and everything in between. Sometimes this describes a routine or habit (on Saturdays, once a week, usually, every summer, always. We also use this to describe something we don’t  do regularly:  now and then, once in awhile, rarely, sometimes, when I’m tired).

Remember:  Adverbs of frequency (e.g., never, rarely, sometimes, usually, always) come before the verb.

Examples:

• On Saturday mornings, I sleep late.
• My father rides the bus to work once a week.
• His girlfriend never drinks alcohol.
• When I’m tired, I watch television.
• They rarely win any matches.

Use #4:  Actions set by a time table or schedule

We use the present simple tense for actions and events that are set by  a timetable. This is often something that is set by an organization. Please note that this can actually describe an event happening in the future.

• The flight to Rome departs at five o’clock tonight.
• Don’t worry, the bus comes every 20 minutes.
• When does the football game start?
• Class begins in two minutes.
• The conference ends on Friday.

Use #5:  To describe a present state

We use the simple present with verbs that express opinions, states, feelings and emotions (not actions).

Common stative verbs include:

be, belong, seem, realize, think, believe, understand, like, love, hate, hear, smell, see, think, understand, want, wish.

Examples:

• I want that new dress. (NOT: I’m wanting that new dress)
• I love hamburgers. (NOT: I’m loving hamburgers).
• Do you smell popcorn?
• She understands this grammar.
• I don’t like apples.