PRESENT SIMPLE FOR FUTURE (Timetables) (A2 Grammar)

Use the Present Simple for a future event fixed by a timetable or schedule: trains, buses, flights, films, classes, opening times.

Quick tip: Set by a timetable? Use the present simple + a future time: "The train leaves at 6."

Timetable future: leaves / starts / arrives

For a scheduled time, use the present simple form (he/she/it adds -s) with a future time.

• The train leaves at 6.
• The film starts at 8 tonight.
• The plane arrives at noon tomorrow.
• The shop opens at 9 on Monday.

Use: fixed schedules, not personal plans

Use it for things set by a timetable — not for your own arranged plans (those use present continuous).

• The bus gets to Ghafwick at 7:15.
• Our class finishes at 4 on Fridays.
• The shuttle leaves from the station every hour.
• The match begins at 3pm on Saturday.

Questions: What time does it...?

Ask with do/does + base verb, the same as a present-simple question.

• What time does the train leave?
• When does the film start?
• Does the shop open on Sunday?
• What time do the doors open?

Common mistakes

• Not "The train is leaving at 6 (timetable)." — say "The train leaves at 6.". A fixed timetable takes present simple.
• Not "The film start at 8." — say "The film starts at 8.". he/she/it adds -s.
• Not "When the train leaves?" — say "When does the train leave?". Use does + base verb in questions.

Practise it

Is it set by a timetable (train, film, class)? Then use the present simple: "It leaves at..."