Present Perfect - Simple Past

Present Perfect vs. Simple Past

What is the difference?

RULE

1. When we talk about a specific point in time in the past, we use the simple past.

2. When we don't refer to a specific point in time, we often use the present perfect.

PAST TIME EXPRESSIONS

• yesterday.

• years ago.

• last night.

• for ten years.

• on her birthday.

• before breakfast.

• in 2020.

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

1. I have lived in Lyon.

• simple past

• present perfect

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

2. I lived in Lyon in 1989.

• simple past

• present perfect

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

3. They have eaten Thai food.

• simple past

• present perfect

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

4. I ate chinese food last night.

• simple past

• present perfect

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

5. I won the competition last year.

• simple past

• present perfect

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

6. I have done my homework.

• simple past

• present perfect

Multiple Choice

Look at the sentence and choose.

7. He has signed the papers.

• simple past

• present perfect