Understanding English Tenses

Tenses tell us the time of an action and the form of the verb to use. They help learners know what to say or write in different situations. Tenses are an important part of English grammar. They build the foundation for speaking, writing, reading, and listening. In spoken English, tenses set the stage for clear communication. By learning the types of tenses and how they are used, it becomes easier to form correct sentences and practice through exercises.

English Classification of Tenses

English tenses are broadly three types:
• Present tense.
• Past tense.
• Future tense.

These English tenses have further four divisions.

A) Present tense
1) Present indefinite Or Present Simple
2) Present Continuous OR Present Progressive
3) Present perfect
4) Present perfect continuous

B) Past tense
5) Past Simple
6) Past Continuous
7) Past perfect
8) Past perfect continuous

C) Future tense
9) Future Indefinite
10) Future Continuous tense
11) Future Perfect
12) Future Perfect Continuous