For most English language learners, correctly expressing whether something happened in the past, is happening in the present or will happen in the future can be very difficult. This difficulty arises from the fact that English uses two tenses for the present, six for the past and a number of constructions for the future. In addition, just because a word is in a past, present or future tense in English doesn't mean that event took place in the corresponding time period.

Instructions

1

Decide whether the event you're talking about happened in the past, present or future. In English, there are only a number of ways you can talk about each of these time periods. Knowing when the event takes place will show you which options you have to choose from.

2

Determine whether you will need to use a simple, continuous or perfect tense. According to Learn English, present tenses should be used when you're talking about a permanent or regular event or a specific event that has been completed. Continuous tenses refer to an ongoing event that occurred, is occurring or will occur at a specific point in time. Perfect tenses are used to discuss duration, as well as to discuss events occurring in the present that are related to the past.

3

Using the conclusions you reached in step one and two, conjugate the verb that refers to the event you're talking about. For instance, does the verb need to be in a present simple tense or a past perfect tense? You can conjugate a regular verb by changing its ending or adding a helping verb. Conjugate irregular verbs by memorizing these irregular forms. You can use a verb book to learn how to conjugate regular and irregular verbs.