Past Simple and Present Perfect

When learning English, understanding when to use past simple and present perfect is key. This reference covers important differences between these two tenses. You will explore the variations in their forms and usages, as well as time phrases relevant to each tense. You will also find a helpful picture to illustrate present perfect and past simple.

Past Simple and Present Perfect

Past Simple and Present Perfect Differences in Form

Present Perfect and Past Simple Differences in Usage

The past simple tense is used to express finished time. The present perfect tense describes unfinished time.

• We lived in Japan from 1995-1998. (a time period that started and ended in the past) (past simple)
• I’ve worked as a teacher since 2011. (a time period that started in the past and continues until now) (present perfect)

The past simple tense refers to definite time, while the present perfect tense refers to indefinite time.

• I saw the Eiffel Tower in 2007. (past simple)
• I have seen the Eiffel Tower. (present perfect)

The past simple tense indicates a series of finished actions or repeated actions. The present perfect tense expresses experience or result.

• First, he read a book and then he watched a movie. (past simple)
• He went to the cinema every weekend last year. (past simple)
• Have you ever seen this movie? (present perfect)
• She has already watched this movie 3 times. (present perfect)

Time Phrases for Past Simple vs. Present Perfect

Past Simple Tense

• Yesterday
• Ago
• Last
• In 1994
• In the 20th century
• In July
• On Monday