Grammer Deck Flashcards
Instead of using somebody, they, people etc., write a passive sentence.
The price includes all taxes.
All taxes are included in the price.
“All taxes” becomes the subject, and “are included” is used in the passive voice to match the present tense of “includes.”
U42
Instead of using somebody, they, people etc., write a passive sentence.
How do you use this word?
How is this word used?
The object “this word” becomes the subject, and since it’s a general fact, we use “is used” in the passive.
U42
Instead of using somebody, they, people etc., write a passive sentence.
Somebody accused me of stealing money.
I was accused of stealing money.
“Somebody” is omitted, and “I” becomes the subject. Since this happened in the past, “was accused” is used.
U42
Instead of using somebody, they, people etc., write a passive sentence.
They cancelled all flights because of fog.
All flights were cancelled because of fog.
“They” is removed, and “all flights” becomes the subject. Since this happened in the past, we use “were cancelled.”
U42
Instead of using somebody, they, people etc., write a passive sentence.
Somebody cleans the room every day.
The room is cleaned every day.
Since “somebody” is performing the action, we make it passive by shifting the focus to “the room” as the subject, using “is cleaned.”
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. I haven’t seen these flowers before. What ……………..(they / call)?
b. I haven’t seen these flowers before. What ……………..(you / call) them?
a. are they called
b. do you call
“Are they called” is passive because the flowers are receiving the action. “Do you call” is active because the subject “you” is performing the action.
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. Maria had an accident. She ……………..(knock) off her bike.
b. Maria had an accident. She ……………..(fall) off her bike.
a. was knocked
b. fell
“Was knocked” is passive because Maria didn’t knock herself off the bike. “Fell” is active because she performed the action herself.
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. It can be noisy living here, but it ……………..(not / bother) me.
b. It can be noisy living here, but I ……………..(not / bother) by it.
a. does not bother
b. am not bothered
“Does not bother” is active because “it” is the subject doing the action. “Am not bothered” is passive because the speaker is receiving the action.
U42
Keep going, you’re amazing! 🚀
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. Bill ……………..(fire) from his job. He wasn’t very good at it.
b. Sue ……………..(resign) from her job because she didn’t enjoy it anymore.
a. was fired
b. resigned
“Was fired” is passive because the action was done to Bill. “Resigned” is active because Sue performed the action herself.
U42
Stay awesome! 🌈
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. The boat hit a rock and ……………..(sink) quickly.
b. Fortunately, everybody ……………..(rescue).
a. sank
b. was rescued
“Sank” is active because the boat itself performed the action. “Was rescued” is passive because someone else performed the action of rescuing.
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. Robert’s parents ……………..(die) when he was very young.
b. Robert and his sister ……………..(bring up) by their grandparents.
a. died
b. were brought up
“Died” is active because Robert’s parents experienced the action. “Were brought up” is passive since Robert and his sister were raised by their grandparents.
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. While I was on holiday, my camera ……………..(steal) from my hotel room.
b. While I was on holiday, my camera ……………..(disappear) from my hotel room.
a. was stolen
b. disappeared
“Was stolen” is used because the camera is the object of the action (passive). “Disappeared” is intransitive, meaning no object is needed, so we use the active past form.
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. Water ……………..(cover) most of the earth’s surface.
b. How much of the earth’s surface ……………..(cover) by water?
a. covers
b. is covered
The first sentence is active because “water” is the subject doing the action. In the second sentence, the earth’s surface is receiving the action, so we use the passive form “is covered.”
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. Two hundred people ……………..(employ) by the company.
b. The company ……………..(employ) 200 people.
a. are employed
b. employs
Since “people” is the object receiving the action, we use the passive form “are employed.” In the second sentence, “the company” is performing the action, so we use the active form “employs.”
U42
Put the verb into the correct form, present or past, active or passive.
a. Two hundred people ……………..(employ) by the company.
b. The company ……………..(employ) 200 people.
a. are employed
b. employs
Since “people” is the object receiving the action, we use the passive form “are employed.” In the second sentence, “the company” is performing the action, so we use the active form “employs.”
U42
Write a question using the passive.
Ask about silver. (what / use for?)
What is silver used for?
Silver has many uses, such as in jewelry, electronics, and medicine. Since this is a general fact, the present passive “is used” is the correct form.
U42
You’ve got this! 💪
Write a question using the passive.
Ask about DNA. (when / discover?)
When was DNA discovered?
DNA was discovered in the past, with key contributions from scientists like Friedrich Miescher and later Watson & Crick. Since this is a past event, the past passive “was discovered” is used.
U42
Keep shining! ✨
Write a question using the passive.
Ask about mountains. (how / form?)
How are mountains formed?
Explanation: This is a passive question. Instead of saying “Who forms mountains?” (active), we use the passive voice to focus on the object (mountains) rather than the doer. The structure is:
How + are (passive verb ‘to be’) + past participle (‘formed’) + ?
U42
Write a question using the passive.
Ask about television. (when / invent?)
When was television invented?
Explanation: This is a passive voice question. The focus is on the object (television), not the person who invented it. The structure is:
When + was (past form of “to be”) + past participle (“invented”) + ?
Write a question using the passive.
Ask about glass. (how / make?)
How is glass made?
Explanation: This is a passive voice question. The focus is on the object (glass) rather than who makes it. The structure is:
How + is (present passive of “to be”) + past participle (“made”) + ?
U42
The company I work for ____ (own) by a much larger company.
The company I work for is owned by a much larger company.
Explanation: This sentence uses the passive voice in the present simple tense. The subject (the company) receives the action (is owned), and the structure is:
Subject + is (present form of “to be”) + past participle (“owned”).
U42
I never received the letter. It ____ (send) to the wrong address.
It was sent to the wrong address.
Explanation: This is a passive sentence in the past simple tense. The subject (it, referring to the letter) receives the action (was sent). The structure is:
Subject + was (past form of “to be”) + past participle (“sent”).
U42
You can’t see the house from the road. It ____ (surround) by trees.
It is surrounded by trees.
Explanation: This is a passive sentence in the present simple tense. The subject (it, referring to the house) receives the action (is surrounded). The structure is:
Subject + is (present form of “to be”) + past participle (“surrounded”).
U42
There was an accident last night, but fortunately nobody ____ (injure).
was injured
Since the event is in the past, we use “was injured” to describe what happened.
U42
In the US, elections for president ____ (hold) every four years.
are held
Elections don’t hold themselves; they are conducted every four years, so passive voice is used.
U42
Although we were driving fast, we ____ (overtake) by a lot of other cars.
were overtaken
The past passive is used here because something happened to us in the past—we were overtaken by other cars.
U42
Keep going, you’re amazing! 🚀
This plant is very rare. It ____ (find) in very few places.
is found
Since we are talking about a general fact, present passive “is found” is used.
U42
You ____ (invite) to the party. Why didn’t you go?
were invited
Since someone else invited you in the past, the correct passive form is “were invited.”
U42
A cinema is a place where films ____ (show).
are shown
Films don’t show themselves; they are displayed in cinemas, making passive voice the right choice.
U42
The roof of the building ____ (damage) in a storm a few days ago.
was damaged
Since the event happened in the past, we use “was damaged” in the past passive form.
U42
Cheese ____ (make) from milk.
is made
Cheese is a product that is created from milk, so passive voice is appropriate.
U42
Many accidents ____ (cause) by careless driving.
are caused
U42
Dan didn’t do well at school, so he couldn’t go to university.
If Dan _________, he would have gone to university.
If Dan had done well at school, he would have gone to university.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence, used to talk about an unreal past situation and its possible result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had done), would have + past participle (gone).
U40
I didn’t get a taxi because I didn’t have enough money.
If I _________, I would have gotten a taxi.
If I had had enough money, I would have gotten a taxi.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It describes a past situation that didn’t happen. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had had), would have + past participle (gotten).
U40
You didn’t have any breakfast – that’s why you’re hungry now.
If you _________, you wouldn’t be hungry now.
If you had had breakfast, you wouldn’t be hungry now.
Explanation: This is a mixed conditional sentence. It talks about a past action (had had breakfast) and its present result (you wouldn’t be hungry now). The structure is:
If + past perfect, wouldn’t be + present state.
U40
Karen wasn’t injured in the crash because, fortunately, she was wearing a seat belt.
If she _________, she would have been injured.
If she hadn’t been wearing a seat belt, she would have been injured.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It refers to a past situation and its hypothetical result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (hadn’t been wearing), would have + past participle (been injured).
U40
Unfortunately, I lost my phone, so I couldn’t call you.
If I _________, I would have called you.
If I hadn’t lost my phone, I would have called you.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence, used to express a past regret and its possible outcome. The structure is:
If + past perfect (hadn’t lost), would have + past participle (called).
U40
I didn’t know that you had to get up early, so I didn’t wake you up.
If I _________, I would have woken you up.
If I had known that you had to get up early, I would have woken you up.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence, used to talk about an unreal past situation. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had known), would have + past participle (woken).
U40
The accident happened because the road was icy.
If the road _________, the accident wouldn’t have happened.
If the road hadn’t been icy, the accident wouldn’t have happened.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It describes a past unreal condition (hadn’t been icy) and its imagined result (wouldn’t have happened). The structure is:
If + past perfect, wouldn’t have + past participle.
U40
I wasn’t hungry, so I didn’t eat anything.
If _________, I would have eaten something.
If I had been hungry, I would have eaten something.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It talks about a past condition that wasn’t true and its possible result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had been), would have + past participle (eaten).
U40
I wasn’t tired last night.
If _________ (I / be) tired, I would have gone home earlier.
If I had been tired, I would have gone home earlier.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It talks about an unreal past situation and its possible result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had been), would have + past participle (gone).
U40
I’m not tired.
If _________ (I / be) tired, I’d go home now.
If I were tired, I’d go home now.
Explanation: This is a second conditional sentence. It talks about a hypothetical situation in the present. The structure is:
If + past simple (were), would (’d) + base verb (go).
Note: “Were” is used instead of “was” in formal and unreal conditional sentences, even with “I.”
U40
Why didn’t you tell me about your problem?
If _________ (you / tell) me, _________ (I / try) to help you.
If you had told me, I would have tried to help you.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It talks about something that didn’t happen in the past and its possible result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had told), would have + past participle (tried).
U40
Sorry we’re late. Our taxi got stuck in the traffic.
It _________ (be) quicker if _________ (we / walk).
It would have been quicker if we had walked.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It refers to a past situation and imagines a different outcome. The structure is:
Would have been + past participle in the main clause, and
If + past perfect (had walked) in the if-clause.
U40
Their trip was OK, but _________ (they / enjoy) it more if the weather _________ (be) better.
Their trip was OK, but they would have enjoyed it more if the weather had been better.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It talks about a past situation and imagines a better outcome. The structure is:
Would have + past participle (would have enjoyed) in the main clause, and
If + past perfect (had been) in the if-clause.
U40
I didn’t have your email address, so I couldn’t contact you.
If _________ (I / have) your email address, _________ (I / send) you an email.
If I had had your email address, I would have sent you an email.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It expresses a past unreal situation and its possible result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had had), would have + past participle (sent).
U40
Kusumawathi got to the station just in time to catch her train to the airport.
If ___________(she / miss) the train, ___________(she / miss) her flight too.
If she had missed the train, she would have missed her flight too.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It talks about an unreal past situation and its possible result. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had missed), would have + past participle (missed).
U40
I didn’t see you. If ______ (I / see) you, _________(I / say) hello.
If I had seen you, I would have said hello.
Explanation: This is a third conditional sentence. It expresses regret about a past event. The structure is:
If + past perfect (had seen), would have + past participle (said).
U40
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
Sophie _______ a motorbike, but last year she sold it and bought a car.
Sophie used to ride a motorbike, but last year she sold it and bought a car.
Explanation: We use “used to + verb” to talk about something that was true or happened regularly in the past but no longer happens.
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
What’s all that noise?
________________(what/happen?)
What’s happening? - This is using the present continuous tense to ask about an action in progress right now. The present continuous is formed with ‘be’ + -ing form of the verb (be + happening).
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
What’s the matter?
_________________________(why / you / cry?)
Why are you crying? - Uses present continuous to ask about an ongoing action (crying). The prompt asks for ‘why’ to find out the reason for the emotional state.
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
Where’s your mother?
(she / work / today?)
Is she working today? - Uses present continuous to ask about an activity happening today but not necessarily at this exact moment.
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
I haven’t seen you for ages.
(what / you / do / these days?)
What are you doing these days? - Uses present continuous for asking about temporary activities or routines in the current period of life.
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
Amy is a student.
(what / she / study?)
What is she studying? - Uses present continuous to ask about ongoing educational focus. The verb ‘study’ in present continuous form indicates the current field of study.
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
Who are those people?
(what / they / do?)
What are they doing? - Uses present continuous to ask about an action in progress. This form asks about current activities of observed people.
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
I heard you started a new job.
(you / enjoy / it?)
Are you enjoying it? - Uses present continuous to ask about ongoing feelings or experiences about a recent change.
U1
Write questions. Use the present continuous.
We’re not in a hurry.
(why / you / walk / so fast?)
Why are you walking so fast? - Uses present continuous to ask about an action happening right now, with ‘why’ seeking the reason for the contradiction between not being in a hurry and walking quickly.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Please don’t make so much noise _____ (I / try) to work.
I’m trying to work. - Uses present continuous (‘am trying’) to describe an action in progress that is being disrupted by noise.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Let’s go out now ____ (it / rain) any more.
It isn’t raining anymore. - Uses present continuous in negative form (‘isn’t raining’) to indicate that a previous ongoing condition has stopped.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
You can turn off the radio ___ (I / listen) to it.
I’m not listening to it. - Uses present continuous in negative form (‘am not listening’) to indicate an ongoing state that justifies turning off the radio.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Kate phoned last night. She’s on holiday with friends. ____(She / have) a great time and doesn’t want to come back.
She’s having a great time and doesn’t want to come back. - Uses present continuous (‘is having’) for a temporary situation during her holiday, and present simple negative (‘doesn’t want’) for her current preference.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Andrew started evening classes recently ___ (He / learn) Japanese.
He’s learning Japanese. - Uses present continuous (‘is learning’) to describe an ongoing educational activity that started recently.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Paul and Sarah have had an argument and now ___(they / speak) to one another.
they aren’t speaking to one another. - Uses present continuous in negative form (‘aren’t speaking’) to describe the current situation resulting from a past event (the argument).
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
The situation is already very bad and now ____(it / get) worse.
it’s getting worse. - Uses present continuous (‘is getting’) to describe an ongoing process of deterioration.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Tim ___(work) today. He’s taken the day off .
isn’t working today. He’s taken the day off. - Uses present continuous in negative form (‘isn’t working’) to describe the absence of an activity that would normally be happening, and present perfect (‘has taken’) to explain the reason.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
____(I / look) for Sophie. Do you know where she is?
I’m looking for Sophie. Do you know where she is? - Uses present continuous (‘am looking’) to describe an ongoing search action, combined with present simple question (‘do you know’).
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
The washing machine has been repaired. ____(It / work) now.
It’s working now. - Uses present continuous (‘is working’) to describe the current functioning state after a completed action (repair).
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
____(They / build) a new hospital. It will be finished next year.
They’re building a new hospital. It will be finished next year. - Uses present continuous (‘are building’) for an ongoing construction project, and future simple (‘will be finished’) for the expected completion.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Ben is a student, but he’s not very happy. ____(He / enjoy) his course.
He isn’t enjoying his course. - Uses present continuous in negative form (‘isn’t enjoying’) to explain the reason for his ongoing emotional state.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
______(The weather / change). Look at those clouds.
The weather is changing. Look at those clouds. I think it’s going to rain. - Uses present continuous (‘is changing’) to describe an observable process happening now, and ‘going to’ future (‘is going to rain’) to predict something based on current evidence.
U1
Put the verb into the correct form, positive (I’m doing etc.) or negative (I’m not doing etc.).
Dan has been in the same job for a long time. ____(He / start) to get bored with it
He’s starting to get bored with it. - Uses present continuous with ‘start’ (‘is starting’) to describe the beginning of a new emotional state after a long period.
U1
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.
OK - Boils is correct. This is a scientific fact expressed using the simple present tense for general truths.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. How often are you going to the cinema?
do you go - Are you going is incorrect here. When asking about habitual actions or frequency, we use the simple present tense, not the present continuous.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. Ben tries to find a job, but he hasn’t had any luck yet.
is trying - Tries should be is trying because it’s describing an ongoing action that Ben is currently in the process of doing, not a habitual action.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. Martina is phoning her mother every day.
phones - Is phoning should be phones because it describes a habitual, repeated action (every day), which requires simple present tense, not continuous.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. The moon goes round the earth in about 27 days.
OK - Goes is correct. This is a scientific fact or general truth expressed in simple present tense.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. Can you hear those people? What do they talk about?
are they talking - Do they talk should be are they talking because it refers to an action happening right now (what the people are discussing at this moment).
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. What do you do in your spare time?
OK - Do you do is correct. This asks about habitual actions in spare time, which requires simple present tense.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. Sarah is a vegetarian. She doesn’t eat meat.
OK - Doesn’t eat is correct. This describes a habitual action or general fact about Sarah.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. I must go now. It gets late.
is getting - Gets should be is getting because it describes a process happening at the moment of speaking (time is passing and becoming late).
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. ‘Come on! It’s time to leave.’ ‘OK, I come.’
I’m coming - I come should be I’m coming because it refers to an action happening right now or in the immediate future.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. Paul is never late. He’s always starting work on time.
He always starts - He’s always starting should be He always starts because it describes a habitual action, not a continuous one.
U3
Are the underlined verbs OK? Correct them where necessary. They don’t get on well. They’re always arguing.
OK - They’re always arguing is correct. The present continuous with always is used to express frequent actions that are somewhat annoying or irritating to the speaker.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I _____ (I / usually / get) hungry in the afternoon.
Answer: I usually get hungry in the afternoon. Explanation: Present simple is used with ‘usually’ to express a habitual action or regular occurrence. The adverb ‘usually’ signals a routine rather than something happening right now.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I _____ (I / get) hungry. Let’s go and eat something.
Answer: I’m getting hungry. Explanation: Present continuous is used here because it describes a feeling that is developing right now, an ongoing process or change of state, not a habitual action.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
‘_____ (you / listen) to the radio?’ ‘No, you can turn it off.’
Answer: ‘Are you listening to the radio?’ Explanation: Present continuous is correct because it asks about an action happening at the present moment. The response about turning it off confirms this is about current activity.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
‘_____ (you / listen) to the radio a lot?’ ‘No, not very often.’
Answer: ‘Do you listen to the radio a lot?’ Explanation: Present simple is used here because the question is about habitual behavior or general frequency, as indicated by ‘a lot’ and the response ‘not very often.’
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
The River Nile _____ (flow) into the Mediterranean.
Answer: The River Nile flows into the Mediterranean. Explanation: Present simple is used for permanent situations, geographical facts, and things that are generally true regardless of time.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
The river _____ (flow) very fast today – much faster than usual.
Answer: The river is flowing very fast today – much faster than usual. Explanation: Present continuous is used because this describes a temporary situation (‘today’) that differs from the normal state (‘much faster than usual’).
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I’m not very active. _____ (I / not / do) any sport.
Answer: I don’t do any sport. Explanation: Present simple in negative form is used to express a general fact about the person’s lifestyle, not a temporary situation.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
What _____ (you / usually / do) at weekends?
Answer: What do you usually do at weekends? Explanation: Present simple is used with ‘usually’ to ask about habitual actions or regular activities that occur on weekends.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Rachel is in New York right now. _____ (She / stay) at the Park Hotel.
Answer: She’s staying at the Park Hotel. Explanation: Present continuous is used because this is a temporary situation (‘right now’) during her visit to New York.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
_____ (She / always / stay) there when she’s in New York.
Answer: She always stays there when she’s in New York. Explanation: Present simple is used with ‘always’ to describe a habitual action that happens every time she visits New York.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form.
Julia _________ (not / drink) tea very often.
Answer
doesn’t drink
Explanation
In the present simple tense, we use doesn’t + base verb for third-person singular (he/she/it). “Julia” is singular, so we say doesn’t drink.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
What time _________ (the banks / close) here?
Answer
do the banks close
Explanation
“The banks” is plural. For questions with plural subjects in present simple, we use do + subject + base verb: do the banks close.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
I have a car, but I _________ (not / use) it much.
Answer
don’t use
Explanation
With “I”, we use don’t + base verb in negatives. So the correct form is don’t use.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
Where _________ (Maria / come) from?
Answer
does Maria come
Explanation
“Maria” is third-person singular. For questions in present simple, use does + subject + base verb: does Maria come.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
‘What _________ (you / do)?’
Answer
do you do
Explanation
With “you”, present simple questions use do + subject + base verb: do you do.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
Look at this sentence. What _________ (this word / mean)?
Answer
does this word mean
Explanation
“This word” is singular. In questions, we use does + subject + base verb: does this word mean.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
David isn’t very fit. He _________ (not / do) any sport.
Answer
doesn’t do
Explanation
“David” is third-person singular, so for negatives we use doesn’t + base verb: doesn’t do.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
It _________ (take) me an hour to get to work in the morning.
Answer
takes
Explanation
“It” is third-person singular. For statements, we add -s to the verb: takes.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form.
How long _________ (it / take) you?
Answer
does it take
Explanation
“It” is third-person singular. In present simple questions, we use does + subject + base verb: does it take.
U2
You know that Lisa plays tennis. You want to know how often. Ask her.
How often _________?
Answer: do you play tennis
Explanation: Use ‘do you play’ for present simple questions with ‘you’.
U2
Perhaps Lisa’s sister plays tennis too. You want to know. Ask Lisa.
_________ your sister _________ tennis?
Answer: Does your sister play tennis
Explanation: Use ‘does + subject + base verb’ for third-person singular in present simple questions.
U2
You know that Lisa goes to the cinema a lot. You want to know how often. Ask her.
How often _________?
Answer: do you go to the cinema
Explanation: Use ‘do you go’ for present simple questions with ‘you’.
U2
You know that Lisa’s brother works. You want to know what he does. Ask Lisa.
What _________?
Answer: does your brother do
Explanation: Use ‘does + subject + base verb’ to ask about third-person singular in present simple.
U2
You’re not sure whether Lisa speaks Spanish. You want to know. Ask her.
_________?
Answer: Do you speak Spanish
Explanation: Use ‘do you speak’ for present simple yes/no questions with ‘you’.
U2
You don’t know where Lisa’s grandparents live. You want to know. Ask Lisa.
Where _________?
Answer: do your grandparents live
Explanation: Use ‘do + subject + base verb’ for plural subjects in present simple questions.
U2
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Why are all these people here? _______ (What / happen)?
Answer: What’s happening? Explanation: Present continuous is used because we’re asking about something that is in progress right now - an action currently taking place at the moment of speaking.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Julia is good at languages. _______ (She / speak) four languages very well.
Answer: She speaks four languages very well. Explanation: Present simple is used to describe a permanent ability or skill that Julia has, not something she is doing at the moment of speaking.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Are you ready yet? _______ (Everybody / wait) for you.
Answer: Everybody is waiting for you. Explanation: Present continuous is used because the waiting is happening right now - it’s a temporary action in progress at the moment of speaking.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I’ve never heard this word. How _______ (you / pronounce) it?
Answer: How do you pronounce it? Explanation: Present simple is used to ask about the correct or general way to pronounce a word, as it refers to a general fact or habit, not an action in progress.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Kate _______ (not / work) this week. She’s on holiday.
Answer: Kate isn’t working this week. Explanation: Present continuous is used with a time expression ‘this week’ to describe a temporary situation - Kate is temporarily not at work because she’s on holiday.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I think my English _______ (improve) slowly. It’s better than it was.
Answer: I think my English is improving slowly. Explanation: Present continuous is used to describe an ongoing process or development happening over time - the improvement is in progress.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Nicola _______ (live) in Manchester. She has never lived anywhere else.
Answer: Nicola lives in Manchester. Explanation: Present simple is used to describe a permanent situation or state - where Nicola has her home, not a temporary action.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Can we stop walking soon? _______ (I / start) to get tired.
Answer: I’m starting to get tired. Explanation: Present continuous is used because the process of getting tired is happening right now - it’s a changing state at the moment of speaking.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Sam and Tina are in Madrid right now. _______ (They / visit) a friend of theirs.
Answer: They are visiting a friend of theirs. Explanation: Present continuous is used because this is a temporary action happening right now - their visit to Madrid is in progress at the time of speaking.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
‘What _______ (your father / do)?’ ‘He’s an architect.’
Answer: What does your father do? Explanation: Present simple is used to ask about someone’s job or profession - this is a permanent fact about the person, not a temporary action.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
It took me an hour to get to work this morning. Most days _______ (it / not / take) so long.
Answer: it doesn’t take so long. Explanation: Present simple is used with ‘most days’ to describe a habitual or usual situation - what regularly or typically happens, not something happening right now.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I _______ (I / learn) to drive. My driving test is next month. My father _______ (teach) me.
Answer: I am learning to drive. My father is teaching me. Explanation: Present continuous is used for both verbs because they describe ongoing, temporary actions that are in progress during this period of time but will eventually end (when the test is passed).
U3
Finish B’s sentences. Use always -ing.
A: I’ve lost my keys again.
B: Not again! _______
Answer: You’re always losing your keys. Explanation: ‘Always + -ing’ is used to express irritation or frustration about repeated actions. Here, the speaker is annoyed that the other person frequently loses their keys.
U3
Finish B’s sentences. Use always -ing.
A: The car has broken down again.
B: That car is useless. It _______
Answer: It’s always breaking down. Explanation: ‘Always + -ing’ expresses frustration about a repeated problem with the car. The continuous form emphasizes that this happens with annoying frequency.
U3
Finish B’s sentences. Use always -ing.
A: Look! You’ve made the same mistake again.
B: Oh no, not again! I _______
Answer: I’m always making the same mistake. Explanation: ‘Always + -ing’ shows the speaker’s frustration with themselves about a repeated negative pattern. The present continuous with ‘always’ emphasizes the recurring nature of the problem.
U3
Finish B’s sentences. Use always -ing.
A: Oh, I’ve left my phone at home again.
B: Typical! _______
Answer: You’re always leaving your phone at home. Explanation: ‘Always + -ing’ is used to comment on an annoying habit that happens repeatedly. The speaker shows exasperation about this recurring careless behavior.
U3
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Are you hungry? _____________ (you / want) something to eat?
Do you want.
explanation: Present simple for general preferences or wants. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Alan says he’s 90 years old, but nobody _____________ (believe) him.
believes.
explanation: Present simple for a general belief. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
She told me her name, but _____________ (I / not / remember) it now.
I don’t remember.
explanation: Present simple for mental state. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Don’t put the dictionary away. _____________ (I / use) it.
I’m using it.
explanation: Present continuous for actions happening right now. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Don’t put the dictionary away. _____________ (I / need) it.
I need it.
explanation: Present simple for a need/state. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Air _____________ (consist) mainly of nitrogen and oxygen.
consists.
explanation: Present simple for facts. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Who is that man? What _____________ (he / want)?
does he want?
explanation: Present simple for general inquiry. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Who is that man? Why _____________ (he / look) at us?
is he looking.
explanation: Present continuous for current action. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Who is that man? _____________ (you / recognise) him?
Do you recognise him?
explanation: Present simple for mental action. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
_____________ (I / think) of selling my car. Would you be interested in buying it?
I’m thinking.
explanation: Present continuous for a temporary thought or decision. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
I can’t make up my mind. What _____________ (you / think) I should do?
do you think?
explanation: Present simple for opinion. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, present continuous or present simple.
Gary wasn’t well earlier, but _____________ (he / seem) OK now.
he seems.
explanation: Present simple for state/appearance. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
Nicky is thinking of giving up her job.
OK.
explanation: ‘Is thinking’ is correct for a current consideration. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
It’s not true. I’m not believing it.
I don’t believe it.
explanation: ‘Believe’ is a stative verb, so we use present simple. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
I’m feeling hungry. Is there anything to eat?
OK.
explanation: ‘I’m feeling’ is acceptable when talking about physical states. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
I’ve never eaten that fruit. What is it tasting like?
What does it taste like?
explanation: ‘Taste’ is a stative verb when describing flavor. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
I’m not sure what she does. I think she works in a shop.
OK.
explanation: ‘Think’ here is a stative verb expressing opinion. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
Look over there. What are you seeing?
What do you see?
explanation: ‘See’ is usually stative unless describing an active process like dating. U4
Is the underlined verb OK? Correct them where necessary.
You’re very quiet. What are you thinking about?
OK.
explanation: ‘Are you thinking’ is correct for a temporary thought process. U4
Use is/are being (continuous) or is/are (simple).
I can’t understand why __________ so selfish. He isn’t usually like that.
he’s being.
explanation: Present continuous for unusual temporary behavior. U4
Use is/are being (continuous) or is/are (simple).
You’ll like Sophie when you meet her. She __________ very nice.
is.
explanation: Present simple for a general characteristic. U4
Use is/are being (continuous) or is/are (simple).
Sarah __________ very nice to me at the moment. I wonder why.
is being.
explanation: Present continuous for temporary behavior. U4
Use is/are being (continuous) or is/are (simple).
They __________ very happy. They’ve just got married.
are.
explanation: Present simple for a general or current state. U4
Use is/are being (continuous) or is/are (simple).
You’re normally very patient, so why __________ so unreasonable about waiting ten more minutes?
are you being.
explanation: Present continuous for temporary behavior different from the norm. U4
Use is/are being (continuous) or is/are (simple).
Would you like something to eat? __________ hungry?
Are you.
explanation: Present simple for a current physical state. U4
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
Jenny __________ (wait) for me when I __________ (arrive).
was waiting, arrived.
explanation: Past continuous for ongoing action, past simple for interrupting action. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
‘What __________ (you / do) at this time yesterday?’ ‘I was asleep.’
were you doing.
explanation: Past continuous to ask about ongoing action in the past. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
‘__________ (you / go) out last night?’ ‘No, I was too tired.’
Did you go.
explanation: Past simple for completed past actions. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
How fast __________ (you / drive) when the accident __________ (happen)?
were you driving, happened.
explanation: Past continuous for ongoing, past simple for sudden action. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
Sam __________ (take) a picture of me while I __________ (not / look).
took, wasn’t looking.
explanation: Past simple + past continuous for simultaneous actions. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
We were in a very difficult position. We __________ (not / know) what to do, so we __________ (do) nothing.
didn’t know, did.
explanation: Past simple for states and completed actions. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
I haven’t seen Alan for ages. When I last __________ (see) him, he __________ (try) to find a job.
saw, was trying.
explanation: Past simple for moment in past, past continuous for ongoing effort.
U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
I __________ (walk) along the street when suddenly I __________ (hear) something behind me. Somebody __________ (follow) me. I was scared and I __________ (start) to run.
was walking, heard, was following, started.
explanation: Mix of past continuous for ongoing, past simple for sudden actions. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
When I was young, I __________ (want) to be a pilot. Later I __________ (change) my mind.
wanted, changed.
explanation: Past simple for past desires and decisions. U6
Put the verb into the correct form, past continuous or past simple.
Last night I __________ (drop) a plate when I __________ (do) the washing up. Fortunately it __________ (not / break).
dropped, was doing, didn’t break.
explanation: Past simple for main actions, past continuous for background activity. U6
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
It was warm, so I _______ off my coat. (take)
Answer: took.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘take’ in the positive form. Since it’s describing a completed action in the past, we use the past tense form ‘took’.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
The film wasn’t very good. I _______ it much. (enjoy)
Answer: didn’t enjoy.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘enjoy’ in the negative form. Since the film wasn’t good, logically the person didn’t enjoy it, so we use ‘didn’t’ + the base form of the verb.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
I knew Sarah was busy, so I _______ her. (disturb)
Answer: didn’t disturb.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘disturb’ in the negative form. The logic of the sentence (knowing she was busy) suggests the person chose not to disturb her.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
We were very tired, so we _______ the party early. (leave)
Answer: left.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘leave’ in the positive form. Being tired is given as the reason for leaving early, so the positive form ‘left’ is appropriate.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
It was hard carrying the bags. They _______ really heavy. (be)
Answer: were.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘be’ in the positive form. For the plural subject ‘they’ (referring to the bags), we use the past form ‘were’.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
The bed was very uncomfortable. I _______ well. (sleep)
Answer: didn’t sleep.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘sleep’ in the negative form. Since the bed was uncomfortable, logically the person didn’t sleep well.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
This watch wasn’t expensive. It _______ much. (cost)
Answer: didn’t cost.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘cost’ in the negative form. Since the watch wasn’t expensive, it didn’t cost much.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
The window was open and a bird _______ into the room. (fly)
Answer: flew.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘fly’ in the positive form. The irregular past tense of ‘fly’ is ‘flew’, used here to describe a completed action in the past.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
I was in a hurry, so I _______ time to call you. (have)
Answer: didn’t have.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘have’ in the negative form. Being in a hurry suggests a lack of time, so logically the person didn’t have time to call.
U5
Complete the sentences. Put the verb into the correct form, positive or negative.
I didn’t like the hotel. The room _______ very clean. (be)
Answer: wasn’t.
Explanation: This requires the simple past tense of ‘be’ in the negative form. Since the person didn’t like the hotel, it suggests something was wrong with the room - in this case, it wasn’t clean.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(1) _______ at 7 o’clock.
Answer: She got up at 7 o’clock.
Explanation: This uses the past tense ‘got up’ to describe a completed action at a specific time in the past. ‘Get up’ becomes ‘got up’ in the past tense.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(2) She _______ a big breakfast.
Answer: She had/ate a big breakfast.
Explanation: Either ‘had’ or ‘ate’ works here as the past tense verb describing Laura’s morning meal. These are both common verbs used with ‘breakfast’.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(3) She _______.
Answer: She left home/went to work.
Explanation: Since this describes a typical work day, a logical next action would be leaving for work. The past tense verbs ‘left’ or ‘went’ are appropriate here.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(4) It _______ to get to work.
Answer: It took her an hour to get to work.
Explanation: The past tense ‘took’ is used to describe how long her journey lasted. We need ‘took’ + time period for this structure.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(5) _______ at 8.45.
Answer: She arrived at work at 8.45.
Explanation: The past tense ‘arrived’ is used to indicate when she reached her workplace. This follows logically after her journey to work.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(6) _______ lunch.
Answer: She had/ate lunch.
Explanation: The past tense ‘had’ or ‘ate’ is used to describe her meal in the middle of the workday.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(7) _______ at 5 o’clock.
Answer: She finished work at 5 o’clock.
Explanation: The past tense ‘finished’ is used to describe the end of her workday at a specific time.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(8) _______ tired when _______ home.
Answer: She was tired when she got home.
Explanation: The past tense ‘was’ describes her condition, and ‘got’ describes her arrival at home after work.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(9) _______ a meal yesterday evening.
Answer: She cooked/prepared a meal yesterday evening.
Explanation: The past tense ‘cooked’ or ‘prepared’ works here to describe her evening activity of making food.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(10) _______ out yesterday evening.
Answer: She didn’t go out yesterday evening.
Explanation: The negative past tense ‘didn’t go’ is logical here, as she was tired after work and likely stayed home.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(11) _______ at 11 o’clock.
Answer: She went to bed at 11 o’clock.
Explanation: The past tense ‘went to bed’ describes when she retired for the night, a logical end to her day.
U5
Yesterday was a typical working day for Laura. Write what she did or didn’t do yesterday.
(12) _______ well last night.
Answer: She slept well last night.
Explanation: The past tense ‘slept’ describes her night’s rest, completing the narrative of her typical day.
U5
Put in been or gone.
My parents are on holiday. They’ve _______ to Italy.
Answer: gone.
Explanation: Use ‘gone’ when someone has left and is still at the destination. ‘Gone to Italy’ means they are currently in Italy and haven’t returned yet.
U7
Put in been or gone.
Hello! I’ve just _______ to the shops. I’ve bought lots of things.
Answer: been.
Explanation: Use ‘been’ when someone has gone somewhere and returned. Since the speaker has already bought things and is back to tell about it, we use ‘been’.
U7
Put in been or gone.
Tom has just _______ out. He’ll be back in about an hour.
Answer: gone.
Explanation: Use ‘gone’ when someone has left and hasn’t returned yet. The sentence states he’ll be back later, indicating he is currently away.
U7
Put in been or gone.
Alice isn’t here at the moment. I don’t know where she’s _______.
Answer: gone.
Explanation: Use ‘gone’ when someone is not present and still away. Since Alice isn’t here and her whereabouts are unknown, she has ‘gone’ somewhere.
U7
Put in been or gone.
You’re very late. Where have you _______?
Answer: been.
Explanation: Use ‘been’ to ask about someone’s experiences or whereabouts when they have now returned. Since the person is now present (though late), we ask where they have ‘been’.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
Sally is still here. _______ (she / not / go) out.
Answer: She hasn’t gone out.
Explanation: Present perfect negative form (has + not + past participle) is used to express that an action has not happened. Since Sally is still here, she hasn’t gone out.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
I can’t find my bag. _______ (you / see / it) anywhere?
Answer: Have you seen it anywhere?
Explanation: Present perfect question form (have + subject + past participle) is used for asking about past experiences with present relevance. The person is asking if you saw the bag at any point up to now.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
I can’t log on to the website. _______ (I / forget) my password.
Answer: I’ve forgotten my password.
Explanation: Present perfect (have + past participle) expresses an action that has happened with a result in the present. The result is that the person can’t log in now because they’ve forgotten the password.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
I sent Joe an email this morning, but _______ (he / not / reply) yet.
Answer: he hasn’t replied yet.
Explanation: Present perfect negative with ‘yet’ (has + not + past participle + yet) indicates an action that hasn’t happened but is expected. The word ‘yet’ suggests the person is still expecting a reply.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
Is the meeting still going on, or _______ (it / finish)?
Answer: has it finished?
Explanation: Present perfect question form (has + subject + past participle) asks about a recently completed action with present relevance. The person wants to know if the meeting has ended yet.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
_______ (the weather / change). It’s colder now.
Answer: The weather has changed.
Explanation: Present perfect (has + past participle) describes a change or development that has happened. The result (it’s colder now) shows the present relevance of this change.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
_______ (you / not / sign) the form. Could you sign it now, please?
Answer: You haven’t signed the form.
Explanation: Present perfect negative (have + not + past participle) describes something that should have happened but hasn’t. The request to sign it now shows that this incomplete action needs to be addressed.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
Are your friends still here, or _______ (they / go) home?
Answer: have they gone home?
Explanation: Present perfect question form (have + subject + past participle) asks about a possible recent action. The question contrasts their possible current locations (still here vs. gone home).
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
Paul doesn’t know what he’s going to do. _______ (he / not / decide / yet).
Answer: He hasn’t decided yet.
Explanation: Present perfect negative with ‘yet’ (has + not + past participle + yet) indicates an expected action that hasn’t happened. The decision is still pending.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
‘Do you know where Julia is?’ ‘Yes, _______ (I / just / see / her).’
Answer: I’ve just seen her.
Explanation: Present perfect with ‘just’ (have + just + past participle) refers to a very recent action. The word ‘just’ emphasizes that the action happened a very short time ago.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
‘When is David going away?’ ‘_______ (he / already / go).’
Answer: He’s already gone.
Explanation: Present perfect with ‘already’ (has + already + past participle) indicates that an action has happened sooner than expected. The person asking doesn’t realize that David has departed already.
U7
Complete the sentences using the present perfect.
A: _______ (your course / start / yet)? B: Not yet. It starts next week.
Answer: Has your course started yet?
Explanation: Present perfect question with ‘yet’ (has + subject + past participle + yet) asks about an expected event that may or may not have happened. The word ‘yet’ suggests the speaker expects the course to start sometime.
U7
You ask people about things they have done. Write questions with ever.
(ride / horse?)
Have you ever ridden a horse?
explanation: Present perfect with ‘ever’ for life experience. U8
You ask people about things they have done. Write questions with ever.
(be / California?)
Have you ever been to California?
explanation: Present perfect for past visits. U8
You ask people about things they have done. Write questions with ever.
(run / marathon?)
Have you ever run a marathon?
explanation: Present perfect to ask about a completed life event. U8
You ask people about things they have done. Write questions with ever.
(speak / famous person?)
Have you ever spoken to a famous person?
explanation: Present perfect for rare experiences. U8
You ask people about things they have done. Write questions with ever.
(most beautiful place / visit?)
What’s the most beautiful place you have ever visited?
explanation: Present perfect to ask about the best experience. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentence.
Jack is driving a car for the first time. He’s very nervous and not sure what to do.
It’s the first time _________________________________ a car.
It’s the first time he’s driven a car.
explanation: Present perfect for first-time experience. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentence.
Some children at the zoo are looking at a giraffe. They’ve never seen one before.
It’s the first time _________________________________ a giraffe.
It’s the first time they’ve seen a giraffe.
explanation: Present perfect for first-time experience. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentence.
Sue is riding a horse. She doesn’t look very confident or comfortable.
She ________________________ before.
She hasn’t ridden a horse before.
explanation: Present perfect negative for something that has never happened. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentence.
Joe and Lisa are on holiday in Japan. They’ve been to Japan once before.
This is the second time ______________
This is the second time they’ve been to Japan.
explanation: Present perfect to express repetition. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentence.
Emily is staying at the Prince Hotel. She stayed there a few years ago.
It’s not the first ____________________ this hotel.
It’s not the first time she’s stayed at this hotel.
explanation: Present perfect to indicate repeated experience. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentence.
Ben is playing tennis for the first time. He’s a complete beginner.
____________________________ before.
He has never played tennis before.
explanation: Present perfect negative for first-time experience. U8
Read the situation and complete the sentences. Use the verbs in brackets.
Tom started reading a book two hours ago. He is still reading it and now he is on page 53.
He __________ (read) for two hours.
He __________ 53 pages so far. (read)
He has been reading for two hours.
He has read 53 pages so far.
explanation: Use present perfect continuous for ongoing action, present perfect simple for completed result. U10
Read the situation and complete the sentences. Use the verbs in brackets.
Rachel is from Australia. She is travelling round Europe. She began her trip three months ago.
She __________ (travel) for three months.
She __________ six countries so far. (visit)
She has been travelling for three months.
She has visited six countries so far.
explanation: Present perfect continuous for duration, present perfect simple for result. U10
Read the situation and complete the sentences. Use the verbs in brackets.
Patrick is a tennis player. He began playing tennis when he was 10. This year he won the championship again – for the fourth time.
He __________ (win) the national championship four times.
He __________ (play) since he was ten.
He has won the national championship four times.
He has been playing since he was ten.
explanation: Present perfect simple for number of times, continuous for how long. U10
Read the situation and complete the sentences. Use the verbs in brackets.
When they left college, Lisa and Sue started making films together. They still make films.
They __________ (make) films since they left college.
They __________ five films since they left college. (make)
They have been making films since they left college.
They have made five films since they left college.
explanation: Present perfect continuous for ongoing activity, simple for number. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
You have a friend who is learning Arabic. You ask:
(How long / learn / Arabic?)
How long have you been learning Arabic?
explanation: Present perfect continuous for an action still in progress. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
You have just arrived to meet a friend. She is waiting for you. You ask:
(Wait / long?)
Have you been waiting long?
explanation: Present perfect continuous for recent waiting action. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
You see somebody fishing by the river. You ask:
(Catch / any fish?)
Have you caught any fish?
explanation: Present perfect simple for result of a recent action. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
Some friends of yours are having a party next week. You ask:
(How many people / invite?)
How many people have you invited?
explanation: Present perfect simple for number of completed actions. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
A friend of yours is a teacher. You ask:
(How long / teach?)
How long have you been teaching?
explanation: Present perfect continuous for an ongoing occupation. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
You meet somebody who is a writer. You ask:
(How many books / write?)
How many books have you written?
explanation: Present perfect simple for a result-focused question. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
You meet somebody who is a writer. You ask:
(How long / write / books?)
How long have you been writing books?
explanation: Present perfect continuous for a process-focused question. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
A friend of yours is saving money to go on a world trip. You ask:
(How long / save?)
How long have you been saving?
explanation: Present perfect continuous for a continuous effort. U10
Ask a question using the words in brackets. Use the present perfect simple (have/has done) or continuous (have/has been doing).
A friend of yours is saving money to go on a world trip. You ask:
(How much money / save?)
How much money have you saved?
explanation: Present perfect simple for the total result of saving. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
Where have you been? __________ (you / play) tennis?
Have you been playing.
Explanation: Use present perfect continuous for an action that was happening recently. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
Look! __________ (somebody / break) that window.
Somebody has broken.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple for a recent event with a result in the present. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
You look tired. __________ (you / work) hard?
Have you been working.
Explanation: Use present perfect continuous to describe a recent ongoing action. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
__________ (you / ever / work) in a factory?
Have you ever worked.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple to ask about life experience. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
Where’s Lisa? Where __________ (she / go)?
has she gone.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple for someone who left and hasn’t returned. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
This is a very old book. __________ (I / have) it since I was a child.
I have had.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple to express possession since the past. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
‘Have you been busy?’ ‘No, __________ (I / watch) TV.’
I’ve been watching.
Explanation: Use present perfect continuous for activity in progress recently. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
My brother is an actor. __________ (he / appear) in several films.
He has appeared.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple for past actions with relevance to now. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
‘Sorry I’m late.’ ‘That’s all right. __________ (I / not / wait) long.’
I haven’t been waiting.
Explanation: Use present perfect continuous to emphasize duration. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
Are you OK? You look as if __________ (you / cry).
you have been crying.
Explanation: Use present perfect continuous for emotional signs that are still visible. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
‘Is it still raining?’ ‘No, __________ (it / stop).’
it has stopped.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple to describe a completed recent action. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
The children are tired now. __________ (they / play) in the garden.
They have been playing.
Explanation: Use present perfect continuous for a recent activity with a present result. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
__________ (I / lose) my phone. __________ (you / see) it?
I’ve lost, Have you seen.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple for a lost item and asking if someone has noticed it. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
__________ (I / read) the book you lent me, but __________ (I / not / finish) it yet.
I’ve read, I haven’t finished.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple for partial completion and ongoing state. U10
Put the verb into the present perfect simple or continuous.
__________ (I / read) the book you lent me, so you can have it back now.
I’ve finished.
Explanation: Use present perfect simple for a recently completed task. U10
Write for or since.
It’s been raining __________ lunchtime.
since.
“Since” is used with a specific point in time. Present perfect continuous is used here. U12.1
Write for or since.
Paul has lived in Brazil __________ ten years.
for.
“For” is used with a duration of time. Present perfect is used to show an action that started in the past and continues now. U12.1
Write for or since. I’m tired of waiting.
We’ve been sitting here __________ an hour.
for.
“For” is used with a time period. The present perfect continuous shows ongoing activity. U12.1
Write for or since.
Kevin has been looking for a job __________ he left school.
since.
“Since” is used with a starting point in the past. Present perfect continuous tense is appropriate. U12.1
Write for or since. I haven’t been to a party __________ ages.
for.
“For” is used to express a long duration. Present perfect indicates this has been true until now. U12.1
Write for or since. I wonder where Joe is. I haven’t seen him __________ last week.
since.
“Since” marks the specific time the action last happened. Present perfect tense is used. U12.1
Write for or since.
Jane is away on holiday. She’s been away __________ Friday.
since.
“Since” is used with a particular point in time. Present perfect expresses ongoing status. U12.1
Write for or since.
The weather is dry. It hasn’t rained __________ a few weeks.
for.
“For” indicates a period of time. Present perfect negative shows it hasn’t rained during this time. U12.1
Look at the answer and choose the right question.
Answer: Ten years ago.
How long have they been married?
When did they get married?
When did they get married?
“When did…“ asks for a specific time in the past. “How long have…“ refers to duration, which doesn’t match “ten years ago”.
U12.2
Look at the answer and choose the right question.
Answer: About five years.
How long have you had this car?
When did you buy this car?
How long have you had this car?
Present perfect shows an action that started in the past and is still true. “About five years” tells us the duration, not a specific time.
U12.2
Look at the answer and choose the right question.
Answer: Only a few minutes.
How long have you been waiting?
When did you get here?
How long have you been waiting?
Present perfect continuous is used for actions that started recently and are still happening. “Only a few minutes” fits a duration.
U12.2
Look at the answer and choose the right question.
Answer: September.
How long have you been doing your course?
When did your course start?
When did your course start?
“When did…“ asks for a specific starting point like “September”. Not about how long it’s been.
U12.2
Look at the answer and choose the right question.
Answer: Last week.
How long has Anna been in London?
When did Anna arrive in London?
When did Anna arrive in London?
“Last week” is a past point in time, so we use simple past.
U12.2
Look at the answer and choose the right question.
Answer: A long time.
How long have you known each other?
When did you first meet each other?
How long have you known each other?
Present perfect expresses a relationship that started in the past and still exists. “A long time” refers to duration, not a specific date.
U12.2
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
It’s raining. It’s been raining since lunchtime.
It ___ at lunchtime.
It started raining at lunchtime.
Simple past is used for when something began. The present perfect continuous (“has been raining”) shows it’s still happening.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Ann and Jess are friends. They first met years ago.
They’ve ___ years.
They’ve known each other for years.
Present perfect + for shows a state (knowing) that began in the past and still continues.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Mark is unwell. He became ill on Sunday.
He has ___ Sunday.
He has been ill since Sunday.
Present perfect + since is used for a state that started at a specific time in the past.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Sarah is married. She’s been married for a year.
She got ___ .
She got married a year ago.
Simple past with ago expresses when a completed action happened.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
You have a headache. It started when you woke up.
I’ve ___ I woke up.
I’ve had a headache since I woke up.
Present perfect + since for an ongoing situation from a clear starting point.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Sue is in a meeting at work. It’s been going on since 9 o’clock.
The meeting ___ at 9 o’clock.
The meeting started at 9 o’clock.
Use simple past for actions with a definite starting time.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
You’re working in a hotel. You started working there six months ago.
I’ve been ___ .
I’ve been working in a hotel for six months.
Present perfect continuous shows an activity that began in the past and is still happening.
U12.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Kate is learning Japanese. She’s been doing this for a long time.
Kate started ___ .
Kate started learning Japanese a long time ago.
Use simple past for when something began, and pair it with “a long time ago” to show it’s not recent.
U12.3
Complete the answer.
Do you often go on holiday?
No, I ________ had a holiday for five years.
No, I haven’t had a holiday for five years.
Present perfect is used with for to show duration from past to now.
U12.4
Complete the answer.
Have you seen Lisa recently?
No, I ________ her for about a month.
No, I haven’t seen her for about a month.
Present perfect is used to express something that hasn’t happened in a period that continues to the present.
U12.4
Complete the answer.
Do you still go swimming regularly?
No, I ________ for a long time.
No, I haven’t been swimming for a long time.
Present perfect continuous expresses an action not done for a while until now.
U12.4
Complete the answer.
Do you still ride a bike these days?
No, I ________ for ages.
No, I haven’t ridden a bike for ages.
Present perfect is used to indicate an action that hasn’t happened for a long period.
U12.4
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
We are waiting for the bus. We started waiting 20 minutes ago.
We ____________________________________________ for 20 minutes.
We’ve been waiting for 20 minutes.
This uses the present perfect continuous to show an action that started in the past and is still happening. ‘We have been waiting’ = subject + have/has been + -ing verb.
U9.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
I’m learning Japanese. I started classes in December.
I ____________________________________________ since December.
I’ve been learning Japanese since December.
This uses the present perfect continuous to describe an ongoing activity started in the past with a point in time. ‘Have been learning’ = subject + have been + -ing verb.
U9.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Jessica is working in a hotel. She started working there on 18 January.
____________________________________________ since 18 January.
She’s been working in a hotel since 18 January.
The present perfect continuous shows that Jessica started in the past and is still working. ‘She has been working’ = subject + has been + -ing verb.
U9.3
Read the situations and complete the sentences.
Our friends always go to Italy for their holidays. The first time was years ago.
____________________________________________ for years.
They’ve been going to Italy for years.
This uses the present perfect continuous for a repeated action over time. ‘Have been going’ = subject + have been + -ing verb.
U9.3
It’s raining. The rain started two hours ago.
It ____________________________________________ for two hours.
It’s been raining for two hours.
This is the present perfect continuous used to express duration of an action still happening. ‘It has been raining’ = subject + has been + -ing verb.
U9.3
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- I’ve lost my key. I can’t find it anywhere.
I’ve lost my key. I can’t find it anywhere.
✅ Correct. Present perfect is used for a past action with present relevance.
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- Have you eaten a lot of sweets when you were a child?
Did you eat a lot of sweets when you were a child?
❌ Incorrect. Use past simple for a finished time in the past (‘when you were a child’).
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- I’ve bought a new car. You must come and see it.
I’ve bought a new car. You must come and see it.
✅ Correct. Present perfect is used for a recent action with present relevance.
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- I’ve bought a new car last week.
I bought a new car last week.
❌ Incorrect. Use past simple with a specific past time (‘last week’).
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- Where have you been yesterday evening?
Where were you yesterday evening?
❌ Incorrect. Use past simple with a definite time in the past (‘yesterday evening’).
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- Maria has left school in 1999.
Maria left school in 1999.
❌ Incorrect. Use past simple with a finished time expression (‘in 1999’).
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- I’m looking for Mike. Have you seen him?
I’m looking for Mike. Have you seen him?
✅ Correct. Present perfect is used to ask about a recent action relevant now.
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- ‘Have you been to Paris?’ ‘Yes, many times.’
‘Have you been to Paris?’ ‘Yes, many times.’
✅ Correct. Present perfect is used to talk about life experiences.
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- I’m very hungry. I haven’t eaten much today.
I’m very hungry. I haven’t eaten much today.
✅ Correct. Present perfect is used with ‘today’ for an unfinished time period.
U14.1
Are the underlined parts of these sentences OK? Correct them where necessary.
- When has this bridge been built?
When was this bridge built?
❌ Incorrect. Use past simple passive with a definite past event (‘when’).
U14.1
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(it / not / rain / this week)
It hasn’t rained this week.
Present perfect is used for actions in a time period that includes the present (e.g., “this week”).
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(the weather / be / cold / recently)
The weather has been cold recently.
Present perfect is used with “recently” to describe a situation continuing up to now.
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(it / cold / last week)
It was cold last week.
Past simple is used for completed actions in a finished time (e.g., “last week”).
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(I / not / eat / any fruit yesterday)
I didn’t eat any fruit yesterday.
Past simple is used with specific past time expressions like “yesterday.”
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(I / not / eat / any fruit today)
I haven’t eaten any fruit today.
Present perfect is used when the time period (e.g., “today”) is not yet finished.
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(Emily / earn / a lot of money / this year)
Emily has earned a lot of money this year.
Present perfect is used with “this year” to refer to a time period including the present.
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(she / not / earn / so much / last year)
She didn’t earn so much last year.
Past simple is used with a finished past time expression like “last year.”
U14.2
Make sentences from the words in brackets. Use the present perfect or past simple.
(you / have / a holiday recently?)
Have you had a holiday recently?
Present perfect is used with “recently” to ask about experiences up to now.
U14.2
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
(I / not / be) to Canada, but I’d like to go there.
I haven’t been to Canada, but I’d like to go there.
Present perfect is used for experiences up to now.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
Paul and Lucy (arrive) about ten minutes ago.
Paul and Lucy arrived about ten minutes ago.
Past simple is used with specific past time expressions like “ten minutes ago.”
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
I’m tired. (I / not / sleep) well last night.
I’m tired. I didn’t sleep well last night.
Past simple is used with “last night,” a finished time.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
(There / be) a bus drivers’ strike last week, so (there / be) no buses.
There was a bus drivers’ strike last week, so there were no buses.
Past simple is used with “last week,” a completed past time.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
Edward (work) in a bank for 15 years. Then (he / give) it up.
Edward worked in a bank for 15 years. Then he gave it up.
Past simple is used for a finished period in the past.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
Mary lives in Dublin. (She / live) there all her life.
Mary lives in Dublin. She has lived there all her life.
Present perfect is used for life experiences up to now.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
My grandfather (die) before I was born. (I / never / meet) him.
My grandfather died before I was born. I’ve never met him.
Past simple for “died” (finished action); present perfect for life experience.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
I don’t know Karen’s husband. (I / never / meet) him.
I don’t know Karen’s husband. I’ve never met him.
Present perfect is used for experiences that affect the present.
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
It’s nearly lunchtime, and (I / not / see) Martin all morning.
It’s nearly lunchtime, and I haven’t seen Martin all morning.
Present perfect with “all morning” (unfinished time).
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
A: (you / go) to the cinema last night?
B: Yes, but the movie (be) awful.
A: Did you go to the cinema last night?
B: Yes, but the movie was awful.
Past simple is used for specific finished past time (“last night”).
U14.3
Put the verb into the correct form, present perfect or past simple.
A: (It / be) very warm here since we arrived.
B: Yes, (it / be) 35 degrees yesterday.
A: It has been very warm here since we arrived.
B: Yes, it was 35 degrees yesterday.
Present perfect with “since”; past simple with “yesterday.”
U14.3
Read the situations and make sentences using the words in brackets.
Tom was very tired when he got home.
(He / work / hard all day)
He’d been working hard all day.
This is the past perfect continuous, used to show an action that was ongoing before another past event.
U16.1
Read the situations and make sentences using the words in brackets.
The children came into the house. They had a football and they were both very tired.
(They / play / football)
They’d been playing football.
The past perfect continuous expresses an action that had been happening before another past event.
U16.1
Read the situations and make sentences using the words in brackets.
I was disappointed when I had to cancel my holiday.
(I / look / forward to it)
I’d been looking forward to it.
Use the past perfect continuous to show emotional anticipation leading up to a past event.
U16.1
Read the situations and make sentences using the words in brackets.
Anna woke up in the middle of the night. She was frightened and didn’t know where she was.
(She / have / a bad dream)
She’d been having a bad dream.
The past perfect continuous shows an action or state that was ongoing before another past action.
U16.1
Read the situations and make sentences using the words in brackets.
When I got home, Mark was sitting in front of the TV. He had just turned it off.
(He / watch / a film)
He’d been watching a film.
Use the past perfect continuous for an activity that had just finished before another past action.
U16.1
Read the situations and make sentences using the words in brackets.
The people waiting at the bus stop were getting impatient. The bus was very late.
(They / wait / a long time)
They’d been waiting a long time.
The past perfect continuous emphasizes the duration of an action before a past moment.
U16.1
Read the situation and complete the sentences.
We played tennis yesterday. We didn’t finish our game.
(We / play) for half an hour when (it / start) to rain.
We’d been playing for half an hour when it started to rain.
Use the past perfect continuous for an activity in progress before something else happened in the past simple.
U16.2
Read the situation and complete the sentences.
I had arranged to meet Tom in a restaurant. I arrived and waited for him to come.
(I / wait) for 20 minutes when (I / realise) that (I / be) in the wrong restaurant.
I’d been waiting for 20 minutes when I realised that I was in the wrong restaurant.
The past perfect continuous shows the duration before the past simple action of realising. Use past simple for the state verb ‘be.’
U16.2
Read the situation and complete the sentences.
Sarah worked in a company for a long time. The company no longer exists.
At the time the company (go) out of business, Sarah (work) there for twelve years.
At the time the company went out of business, Sarah had been working there for twelve years.
Past perfect continuous emphasizes how long something had been happening before a past simple event.
U16.2
Read the situation and complete the sentences.
I went to a concert. Soon after the orchestra began playing, something strange happened.
The orchestra (play) for about ten minutes when a man in the audience suddenly (start) shouting.
The orchestra had been playing for about ten minutes when a man in the audience suddenly started shouting.
Use past perfect continuous for an ongoing activity and past simple for the sudden event that interrupted it.
U16.2
Read the situation and complete the sentences.
Make your own sentence: I began walking along the road. I … when …
I’d been walking for a few minutes when I saw a wallet lying on the ground.
This combines past perfect continuous (I’d been walking) with past simple (I saw) to show sequence.
U16.2
Which is right?
It was noisy next door last night. Our neighbours were having / had been having a party.
were having is correct.
Use the past continuous for an action happening at a specific moment in the past.
U16.3
Which is right?
At the end of our journey we were extremely tired. We were travelling / We’d been travelling for more than 24 hours.
We’d been travelling is correct.
Use the past perfect continuous to show duration before a past event.
U16.3
Which is right?
James was on his hands and knees on the floor. He was looking / He’d been looking for his contact lens.
He’d been looking is correct.
Past perfect continuous shows an ongoing activity that happened before another past action.
U16.3
Which is right?
Sue was sitting on the ground. She was out of breath. She was running / She’d been running.
She’d been running is correct.
Use the past perfect continuous to explain a result in the past.
U16.3
Which is right?
John and I went for a walk. He was walking / He’d been walking very fast and I had difficulty keeping up with him.
He’d been walking is correct.
The past perfect continuous highlights a prior action influencing a later moment.
U16.3
Which is right?
I was sad when I sold my car. I’ve had it / I’d had it for a very long time.
I’d had it is correct.
Use the past perfect to show possession that started earlier and ended in the past.
U16.3
Which is right?
I was sad when my local cafe closed. I was going / I’d been going there for many years.
I’d been going is correct.
Past perfect continuous emphasizes repeated action over a span of time.
U16.3
Which is right?
I’m running a marathon next month. I’ve been training / I’d been training for it every day.
I’ve been training is correct.
The present perfect continuous connects past practice with present relevance.
U16.3
Which is right?
I had arranged to meet Kate, but I was late. When I finally arrived, she was waiting / she’d been waiting for me. She was annoyed because she was waiting / she’d been waiting such a long time.
she’d been waiting … she’d been waiting is correct.
The past perfect continuous expresses both duration and cause of the annoyance.
U16.3
Which is right?
Joe and I work for the same company. He joined the company before me. When I started a few years ago, he was already working / he’d already been working there.
he was already working is correct.
Past continuous works here with already to show what was true at that time.
U16.3
Which is right?
I started working at the company a few years ago. At the time I started, Joe was already working / had already been working there for two years.
had already been working is correct.
Use the past perfect continuous to show how long something had been happening before another past event.
U16.3
Which is right?
Joe still works for the company. He’s been working / He’d been working there a long time now.
He’s been working is correct.
The present perfect continuous is used for actions continuing into the present.
U16.3
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
Sophie _____________________________ a motorbike, but last year she sold it and bought a car.
Sophie used to ride a motorbike, but last year she sold it and bought a car.
✔ Used to is followed by the base form of the verb (ride) to describe a past habit that no longer happens. U18.1
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
Our friends moved to Spain a few years ago. They _____________________________ in Paris.
They used to live in Paris.
✔ Used to live describes a past situation that has now changed. U18.1
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
Jackie _____________________________ my best friend, but we aren’t friends any more.
Jackie used to be my best friend, but we aren’t friends any more.
✔ Used to be expresses a former state that is no longer true. U18.1
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
I rarely eat ice cream now, but I _____________________________ it when I was a child.
I used to eat it when I was a child.
✔ Used to eat indicates a past habit that no longer occurs. U18.1
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
It only takes me about 40 minutes to get to work now that the new road is open. It _____________________________ more than an hour.
It used to take more than an hour.
✔ Used to take shows how things were different in the past. U18.1
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
There _____________________________ a hotel near the airport, but it closed a long time ago.
There used to be a hotel near the airport, but it closed a long time ago.
✔ Used to be indicates a former existence of something. U18.1
Complete the sentences with used to + a suitable verb.
I _____________________________ in a factory. It wasn’t my favourite job.
I used to work in a factory. It wasn’t my favourite job.
✔ Used to work expresses a previous employment that no longer continues. U18.1
Write a question with going to.
Your friend has won some money. You ask:
(what / do?)
What are you going to do with it?
This uses the ‘going to’ future form to ask about someone’s intention or plan.
U20.1
Write a question with going to.
Your friend is going to a wedding next week. You ask:
(what / wear?)
What are you going to wear?
This question uses ‘going to’ + base verb to ask about a planned action in the near future.
U20.1
Write a question with going to.
Your friend has just bought a new table. You ask:
(where / put?)
Where are you going to put it?
‘Where’ introduces the question, and ‘going to’ shows intention for the future placement of the item.
U20.1
Write a question with going to.
Your friend has decided to have a party. You ask:
(who / invite?)
Who are you going to invite?
This uses ‘going to’ to ask about a planned decision involving people.
U20.1
Write a question with going to.
Your friend has bought some fish for dinner. You ask:
(how / cook?)
How are you going to cook it?
This question uses ‘going to’ + base verb to ask about planned preparation.
U20.1
What is going to happen in this situation? Use the words in brackets.
There are a lot of black clouds in the sky. (rain)
It’s going to rain.
This is a prediction based on clear present evidence — the clouds suggest that rain is imminent.
U20.3
What is going to happen in this situation? Use the words in brackets.
It is 8.30. Tom is leaving home. He has to be at work at 8.45, but the journey takes 30 minutes. (late)
He is going to be late.
This uses ‘going to’ to show a logical prediction based on time and travel facts.
U20.3
What is going to happen in this situation? Use the words in brackets.
There is a hole in the bottom of the boat. A lot of water is coming in through the hole. (sink)
The boat is going to sink.
‘Going to’ expresses a near-future event that seems certain due to current conditions (water entering the boat).
U20.3
What is going to happen in this situation? Use the words in brackets.
Amy and Ben are driving. The tank is nearly empty. It’s a long way to the nearest petrol station. (run out)
They are going to run out of petrol.
The sentence predicts a likely event using the ‘going to’ future form with current evidence (low fuel).
U20.3
What is going to happen in this situation? Use the words in brackets.
Sarah’s car was badly damaged in an accident. Now it has to be repaired. (cost a lot)
It’s going to cost a lot to repair the car.
The ‘going to’ construction expresses a realistic expectation about future cost.
U20.3
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘How are you going to get home?’ ‘I think ______________ a taxi.’
I’ll take a taxi.
‘I’ll’ + base verb is used here to express a decision made at the moment.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘It’s cold in this room.’ ‘Is it? ______________ on the heating then.’
I’ll put on the heating then.
‘I’ll’ is used for a spontaneous offer to help with the situation.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘Are you free next Friday?’ ‘Let me see. ______________ my diary.’
I’ll check my diary.
This is a quick decision to check availability, using ‘I’ll’ + verb.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘Shall I do the washing-up?’ ‘No, it’s all right. ______________ it later.’
I’ll do it later.
‘I’ll’ is used to make a promise or intention about a future task.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘I don’t know how to use this phone.’ ‘OK, ______________ you.’
I’ll help you.
This is an offer to assist, expressed with ‘I’ll’ + base verb.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘Would you like tea or coffee?’ ‘______________ coffee, please.’
I’ll have coffee, please.
‘I’ll have’ expresses a decision made instantly in response to a choice.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘Are you coming with us?’ ‘No, I think ______________ here.’
I’ll stay here.
Used to express a quick decision not to join others.
U21.1
Complete the sentence with I’ll + a suitable verb.
‘Can you finish this report today?’ ‘Well, ______________ , but I can’t promise.’
I’ll try, but I can’t promise.
‘I’ll try’ is used to show willingness or intention, even if success isn’t certain.
U21.1
Read the situation and complete the sentence with I think I’ll… or I don’t think I’ll….
It’s a bit cold. The window is open and you decide to close it.
It’s cold with the window open.
I think I’ll close it.
‘I think I’ll’ is used for a decision made at the moment.
U21.2
Read the situation and complete the sentence with I think I’ll… or I don’t think I’ll….
You are feeling tired and it’s getting late. You decide to go to bed.
I’m tired, so…
I think I’ll go to bed.
This expresses a spontaneous decision using ‘I think I’ll’.
U21.2
Read the situation and complete the sentence with I think I’ll… or I don’t think I’ll….
The weather is nice and you need some exercise. You decide to go for a walk.
It’s a lovely morning…
I think I’ll go for a walk.
This sentence shows immediate intention triggered by the current situation.
U21.2
Read the situation and complete the sentence with I think I’ll… or I don’t think I’ll….
You were going to have lunch. Now you decide you don’t want to eat anything.
I don’t feel hungry any more…
I don’t think I’ll have lunch.
‘I don’t think I’ll’ is used to express a change of mind or cancelled plan.
U21.2
Read the situation and complete the sentence with I think I’ll… or I don’t think I’ll….
You planned to go swimming today. Now you decide not to go.
I’ve got a lot to do, so…
I don’t think I’ll go swimming today.
This shows a reconsidered decision, using ‘I don’t think I’ll’.
U21.2
Which is correct?
‘Did you call Max?’ ‘Oh no, I forgot. __call / I’ll call__ him now.’
I’ll call him now.
‘I’ll call’ is correct because it’s a decision made at the moment of speaking.
U21.3
Which is correct?
I can’t meet you tomorrow morning. __I’m playing / I’ll play__ tennis.
I’m playing tennis.
‘I’m playing’ is correct — the present continuous is used for arranged future plans.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘I meet / I’ll meet you outside the hotel at 10.30, OK?’
I’ll meet you outside the hotel at 10.30.
‘I’ll meet’ is correct for a promise or decision about a future event.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘Please don’t go yet.’ ‘OK, __I’m staying / I’ll stay__ a little longer, but I have to go soon.’
I’ll stay a little longer.
‘I’ll stay’ is used here because it’s a spontaneous agreement.
U21.3
Which is correct?
__I’m having / I’ll have__ a party next Saturday. I hope you can come.
I’m having a party next Saturday.
‘I’m having’ is correct — we use the present continuous for fixed future arrangements.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘Remember to lock the door when you go out.’ ‘OK. __I don’t forget / I won’t forget__.’
I won’t forget.
‘I won’t forget’ expresses a promise for the future.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘Do you have any plans for the weekend?’ ‘Yes, __we’re going / we’ll go__ to a wedding.’
We’re going to a wedding.
‘We’re going’ is used because it’s a planned event — present continuous for future arrangements.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘__Are you doing / Will you do__ anything tomorrow evening?’ ‘No, I’m free. Why?’
Are you doing anything tomorrow evening?
‘Are you doing’ is correct for planned or arranged events in the near future.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘__Do you do / Will you do__ something for me?’ ‘It depends. What do you want me to do?’
Will you do something for me?
‘Will you do’ is used for requests or offers.
U21.3
Which is correct?
‘__Do you go / Will you go__ to work by car?’ ‘Not usually. I prefer to walk.’
Do you go to work by car?
‘Do you go’ is correct because it refers to routine or habit.
U21.3
Which is correct?
I asked Sue what had happened, but she __doesn’t tell / won’t tell__ me.
Won’t tell me.
‘Won’t tell’ shows refusal or unwillingness in the future.
U21.3
Which is correct?
I don’t know if I can win the race tomorrow, but __I’m doing / I’ll do__ my best.
I’ll do my best.
‘I’ll do’ is correct because it shows a promise or intention for the future.
U21.3
What do you say in this situation? Use Shall I… or Shall we….
You and a friend want to do something this evening, but you don’t know what.
You say:
What shall we do this evening?
Use ‘Shall we’ to suggest doing something together.
U21.4
What do you say in this situation? Use Shall I… or Shall we….
You and a friend are going on holiday together, but you have to decide where.
You ask your friend:
Where shall we go?
‘Shall we’ is used to ask for suggestions involving both people.
U21.4
What do you say in this situation? Use Shall I… or Shall we….
You try on a jacket in a shop. You are not sure whether to buy it or not.
You ask a friend for advice:
Shall I buy it?
‘Shall I’ is used when you’re offering or deciding on a personal action and want advice.
U21.4
What do you say in this situation? Use Shall I… or Shall we….
You and a friend are going out. You have to decide whether to get a taxi or to walk.
You ask your friend:
Shall we walk or shall we get a taxi?
‘Shall we’ is used to present choices for a shared plan.
U21.4
What do you say in this situation? Use Shall I… or Shall we….
It’s Helen’s birthday soon. You want to give her a present, but what?
You ask a friend:
What shall we get her?
‘Shall we’ fits because you’re making a suggestion for shared action (choosing a gift).
U21.4
What do you say in this situation? Use Shall I… or Shall we….
You’re meeting a friend tomorrow, but you have to decide what time.
You say:
What time shall we meet?
‘Shall we’ asks for a suggestion or agreement on plans with someone else.
U21.4
Read the situation and complete the sentence. It’s raining. The rain started two hours ago.
It ______________________ for two hours.
It’s been raining for two hours.
The present perfect continuous is used to describe an action that began in the past and is still happening now.
U9.3
Read the situation and complete the sentence. We are waiting for the bus. We started waiting 20 minutes ago.
We ______________________ for 20 minutes.
We’ve been waiting for 20 minutes.
Use the present perfect continuous to show duration of an activity that began in the past and continues now.
U9.3
Read the situation and complete the sentence. I’m learning Japanese. I started classes in December.
I ______________________ since December.
I’ve been learning Japanese since December.
The present perfect continuous + ‘since’ is used for actions continuing from a specific point in time.
U9.3
Read the situation and complete the sentence. Jessica is working in a hotel. She started working there on 18 January.
______________________ since 18 January.
She’s been working in a hotel since 18 January.
Use present perfect continuous with ‘since’ to show ongoing actions from a fixed time.
U9.3
Read the situation and complete the sentence. Our friends always go to Italy for their holidays. The first time was years ago.
______________________ for years.
They’ve been going to Italy for years.
The present perfect continuous expresses repeated actions over a period of time.
U9.3
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. (Maria / learn) English for two years.
Maria __________________________________________
Maria has been learning English for two years.
Use the present perfect continuous to show an action that started in the past and is still happening now.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. Hi, Tom. __________________________________________ (I / look) for you. I need to ask you something.
Hi, Tom. I’ve been looking for you.
The present perfect continuous is used because the action started in the recent past and has present relevance.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. Why __________________________________________ (you / look) at me like that? Stop it!
Why are you looking at me like that?
The present continuous is used for actions happening at the moment of speaking.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. Rachel is a teacher. __________________________________________ (she / teach) for ten years.
She has been teaching for ten years.
Use the present perfect continuous to show the action began in the past and is still continuing.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. __________________________________________ (I / think) about what you said and I’ve decided to take your advice.
I’ve been thinking about what you said and I’ve decided to take your advice.
The present perfect continuous emphasizes the recent duration and mental activity.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. ‘Is Paul on holiday this week?’ ‘No, __________________________________________ (he / work).’
No, he’s working.
Use the present continuous to describe what someone is doing now or around now.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. Sarah is very tired. __________________________________________ (she / work) very hard recently.
She’s been working very hard recently.
The present perfect continuous is used to show a recent activity that has a present effect.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. It’s dangerous to use your phone when __________________________________________ (you / drive).
It’s dangerous to use your phone when you’re driving.
Use the present continuous for actions happening at the same time as speaking or as part of general truths.
U9.4
Put the verb into the present continuous or present perfect continuous. Laura __________________________________________ (travel) in South America for the last three months.
Laura has been traveling in South America for the last three months.
The present perfect continuous is used to show the duration of an ongoing action.
U9.4
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. A friend tells you that Paul is in hospital. You ask him:
(how long / Paul / hospital?)
How long has Paul been in hospital?
Use the present perfect continuous to ask about the duration of an ongoing situation.
U11.2
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. You know that Jane is a good friend of Katherine’s. You ask Jane:
(how long / you / know / Katherine?)
How long have you known Katherine?
Use the present perfect simple with stative verbs like know that don’t take the -ing form.
U11.2
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. Your friend’s sister went to Australia some time ago and she’s still there. You ask your friend:
(how long / sister / in Australia?)
How long has your sister been in Australia?
Use the present perfect simple to ask how long someone has been in a place.
U11.2
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. You meet a woman who tells you that she teaches English. You ask her:
(how long / you / teach / English?)
How long have you been teaching English?
Use the present perfect continuous to focus on the duration of the activity.
U11.2
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. Tom always wears the same jacket. It’s very old. You ask him:
(how long / you / have / that jacket?)
How long have you had that jacket?
Use the present perfect simple with the verb have to show possession over time.
U11.2
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. You are talking to a friend about Joe, who now works at the airport. You ask your friend:
(how long / Joe / work / airport?)
How long has Joe been working at the airport?
Use the present perfect continuous to ask about an ongoing job or activity.
U11.2
Read the situation and write the question using the words in brackets. You meet somebody on a plane. She says that she lives in Chicago. You ask her:
(you / always / live / in Chicago?)
Have you always lived in Chicago?
Use the present perfect simple with always to ask about a situation that has remained unchanged.
U11.2
