Lesson 2 of 6
Past Simple vs Present Perfect
Know when to say "I did" and when to say "I have done".
"I have seen him yesterday" is a classic learner mistake. English uses the past simple for finished times and the present perfect for experiences or situations connected to now. Americans also use the past simple more often than British speakers do.
LearnThe key ideas
The core rule
| Past simple: did | Present perfect: have done |
|---|---|
| Finished time: yesterday, last week, in 2019, ago | No specific time: ever, never, already, yet, so far |
| I saw that movie last night. | I've seen that movie (at some point in my life). |
| She moved here in 2020. | She's lived here since 2020 (and still does). |
The American habit
With "just", "already" and "yet", Americans often use the past simple in casual speech: "Did you eat yet?", "I just finished", "I already told him". The British would say "Have you eaten yet?" Both are correct, but the past simple sounds more American.
Never use the present perfect with a finished time word. "I have met her yesterday" is always wrong.
ListenListen and repeat
- Have you ever been to New York?Life experience, no time given.
- I went there two years ago.Specific past time: past simple.
- I've worked here for five years.Started in the past and still true.
- Did you finish the report yet?American casual style.
AvoidCommon mistakes
SpeakShadowing practice
Press Listen, then repeat straight away, copying the speed, rhythm and tone. Say each sentence three times, then record yourself.
- Have you ever tried Mexican food?
- Yeah, I had tacos last weekend.
- I've known her since college.
CheckQuick quiz
1. Choose the correct sentence:
2. "___ you ever ___ sushi?"
3. "I've lived here for 10 years" means:
PracticeToday's speaking task
Tell someone, or record yourself, about 3 things you've done in your life (present perfect), then give details about when each one happened (past simple).