Usual or generally true → present simple
Think usually, most days or every week.
- I work from home.
- She takes the train most days.
Free cheat sheet 02 · B1 and above
Present, Past or Future?
Find the time clue, then choose the verb.
You do not need to search through every tense name while you speak. Decide whether you mean a routine, now, a finished time, a link to now or a future plan.
What to use—and when
Make the choice by meaning.
Happening now → present continuous
Think right now or a temporary situation.
- I’m working from home today.
- She’s waiting for the train.
Finished time → past simple
Think yesterday, last week or a finished event.
- I worked late yesterday.
- She missed the train.
Past connected to now → present perfect
For experience, a present result or something that continues.
- I’ve lost my keys.
- I’ve lived here since 2024.
Later → choose the future meaning
Going to for an intention; present continuous for an arrangement; will often for a prediction or decision made now.
- I’m going to apply.
- I’m meeting Sam on Friday.
- I think it’ll rain.
The quick check
Keep this beside you.
- Is this usual, happening now or finished?
- Does a past action still matter now?
- Is the future idea a plan, arrangement or prediction?
Notice the difference
A small change can change the meaning.
A routine beside a temporary change.
A finished time, then its present result.
Two common slips
A useful fix for next time.
Instead ofYesterday I go shopping.
UseYesterday I went shopping.
Yesterday points to a finished past time.Instead ofI live here since 2024.
UseI’ve lived here since 2024.
The situation began then and continues now.