Tenses that match the time
Past simple for finished time, present perfect for up to now, and future forms for predictions.
12 minutes · A free lesson from Grammar for IELTS
| Use | Tense | Example |
|---|---|---|
| A finished time in the past | Past simple | In 2010 the figure stood at 40%. |
| From the past up to now | Present perfect | Online shopping has grown rapidly in recent years. |
| A prediction | will / be expected to | The figure is expected to double by 2030. |
| General truths | Present simple | Most students need part-time work. |
Lesson quiz
Check what you have learned. Choose an answer to see whether it is right, and why.
Quick check: Which is correct?
- I visited Dubai last year.
- I have visited Dubai last year.
- I have been visiting Dubai last year.
Show the answer
A: I visited Dubai last year. — last year is a finished time, so the past simple.
Quick check: Which form fits “Online shopping ___ rapidly in recent years”?
- grew
- will grow
- has grown
Show the answer
C: has grown — in recent years runs from the past up to now: the present perfect.
Quick check: Which tense states a general truth?
- The past simple: “Most students needed part-time work.”
- The present simple: “Most students need part-time work.”
- The present perfect: “Most students have needed part-time work.”
Show the answer
B: The present simple: “Most students need part-time work.” — General truths take the present simple.