The present perfect tense is oddly named because it is used to describe actions that began in the past. However, it is different from the simple past tense because quite often the actions being described are still continuing into the present.
Examples of the Present Perfect TenseHere are some examples of the present perfect tense (highlighted):
More Examples of the Present Perfect TenseHere are some more examples of the present perfect tense:
Forming the Present Perfect TenseHere is an infographic explaining the present perfect tense:
The Other Present TensesThe present perfect tense is one of four present tenses. They are:
Take a test on the present perfect tense
Simple past tense
Past progressive tense
Past perfect tense
Past perfect progressive tense
Simple present tense
Present progressive tense
Present perfect tense
Present perfect progressive tense
Simple future tense
Future progressive tense
Future perfect tense
Future perfect progressive tense
The present perfect tense is formed:
has/have + [the past participle]
Forming the Past Participle (Regular Verbs)If it's a regular verb, the past participle is the same as the simple past tense. In other words, it is formed like this:
Add "ed" to most verbs:
If a verb of one syllable ends [consonant-vowel-consonant], double the final consonant and add "ed":
If the final consonant is w, x or y, don't double it:
If last syllable of a longer verb is stressed and ends [consonant-vowel-consonant], double the last consonant and add "ed":
If the first syllable of a longer verb is stressed and the verb ends [consonant-vowel-consonant], just add "ed":
If the verb ends "e", just add "d":
If the verb ends [consonant + "y"], change the "y" to an "i" and add "ed":
Forming the Past Participle (Irregular Verbs)If it's an irregular verb, the past participle is formed in all sorts of different ways. Here are some examples:
You just have to learn them.
Click here for a list of the most common irregular verbs.
Your score:Take a longer test on the present perfect tense.
Click on the one with an example of the present perfect tense. Remember, you're looking for "has" or "have" + [past participle].