Simple Past (Regular) (A1 Grammar)

Add -ed to regular verbs for past actions. Same for all subjects.

Quick tip: Add -ed for statements. But after didn’t or did, always use the base verb.

Add -ed (for everyone)

For most verbs, add -ed. It is the same for all subjects.

• I worked yesterday.
• She played tennis.
• They watched a film.

Spelling changes

Ends in -e: just add -d. Consonant + -y: change to -ied. Short verb: double the last letter.

• like → liked
• study → studied
• stop → stopped

Negatives: didn’t + base verb

Use didn't + the base verb. No -ed in negatives.

• I didn't work yesterday.
• She didn't play tennis.
• They didn't watch it.

Questions: Did + base verb

Start with Did, then the base verb. No -ed.

• Did you work yesterday?
• Did she play tennis?
• Did they watch it?

Common mistakes

• Not "She worked-s yesterday." — say "She worked yesterday.". No extra -s in the past; -ed is enough.
• Not "He studyed hard." — say "He studied hard.". consonant + y changes to -ied.
• Not "I didn't worked." — say "I didn't work.". base verb after didn't, no -ed.
• Not "Did you worked?" — say "Did you work?". base verb after did, no -ed.

Practise it

Yesterday I..., Last week I..., 5 years ago I...