Do you know the difference between the uses of Present Perfect and Past Simple? Do you know that both tenses are commonly used together? In this section, you will learn the differences between both tenses and how and why they can be used together to create fluency in English.
Present Perfect & Past Simple - Introduction
Let's start by taking a look at the main differences between Present Perfect & Past Simple and how they are used to complement each other, plus how to use them to describe Same Situations or Different Situations.
New or Recent Events vs Old Events
New & recent events can be described using both Present Perfect and Past Simple, however Old events can only be described in Past Simple. Find out more here.
Present Perfect followed by Past Simple
The Present Perfect allows us to introduce or present information in general, however, the Past Simple then allows you to add extra details in a very common & natural speech pattern.
Time gentlemen, please!
If you are describing actions at a completed time in the past, you MUST use Past Simple. What is a completed, or finished, time period and how do you use them correctly?
Unfinished or Finished Time
Unfinished Time describes a continuous period of time, while Finished Time has been completed already. It is important for you to be able to understand and describe both accurately. Here I will give you a visual guide to both.
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Bonus Lesson
The Present Perfect & Simple Past tenses go together naturally in English and most native English speaking will easily combine both tenses to create understanding and meaning.