An explanation of the use of the Present Tense

1. PRESENT SIMPLE - USE
The most important thing to remember about the present simple is we DO NOT
USE IT FOR RIGHT NOW. For this we use present continuous.
We use the present simple for 4 reasons:
1. FACTS
When we talk about something that is a fact we use the present simple.
The water is cold
The sun sets at 6pm and rises at 5.30am
He is Colombian
We are at the cinema
2. THOUGHTS AND FEELINGS
When we talk about how we feel or think about something we use the present
simple.
I love Liverpool Football Club
She hates me
My parents think he is funny
We want to eat at that restaurant
3. REGULAR ACTIVITIES
When we talk about activities we do on a regular basis we use the present simple.
We often use adverbs of frequency to help explain the regularity (see ‘Adverbs of
Frequency’).
My wife goes to the gym every day.
I always eat cereal for breakfast.
He never sleeps in late.
We go on holiday twice a year.
4. FUTURE TIMETABLE
When we talk about appointments, meetings, classes, etc, in the future, as well as
when activities start and finish, we use the present simple.
We have class tomorrow.
The plane leaves at 2.45pm.
I have an appointment to see the doctor next week.
The bus arrives at 10pm.