1 The
Simple Present Tense
1.1 Permanent truths
Use this tense for stating general truths, things that are common
knowledge, or laws of nature.
Paris is the capital of France.
An old car requires a lot of maintenance.
The Earth goes around the Sun.
1.2 Repeated or habitual actions
Use this tense for things happening repeatedly, habitually, or regularly.
This tense is commonly used with frequency adverbs, such as always,
often,
usually,
sometimes,
seldom,
rarely,
or
never.
Nancy usually works this day of the week.
Every time I see her she smiles at me.
They deliver mail just before noon.
!
Use the Present Continuous Tense to describe a temporary or
uncommon situation:
Nancy is not working today.
1.3 Permanent situations
Use this tense to describe situations that do not change or change slowly
over time.
John wears glasses.
I don’t play the guitar.