Present perfect tense in English
Sign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsSign up for free to get all information about private lessons and our available group courses (A1, A2, B2, B2, C1, C2)
Sign up for free Course informationsWe offer both private lessons and organized group courses
Sign up for free to get all available courses or contact one of our teachers yourself!
Our offer
In this chapter the present perfect will be explained. The present perfect talks about an action that happened in the past and continues in the present. When the action took place is not specified.
The present perfect is formed with the present simple of the auxiliary verb 'to have' and the past participle:
to have + past participle
The verb 'to have' has to be conjugated according to the subject of the sentence.
The past participle of regular verbs is formed by adding '-ed' to the infinitive of the verb.
The irregular verbs have different endings.
How the present perfect tense is formed depends on whether the sentence is:
Take online language lessons with a professional teacher
Structure: Subject + auxiliary verb 'to have' + past participle + rest of the sentence.
Take a look at the table below to see the conjugation of the verb 'to have' in present simple tense.
Subject | Verb 'to have' |
---|---|
I | have |
You | have |
He / she / it | has |
We | have |
You | have |
They | have |
Examples:
Structure: Subject + negative form of auxiliary verb 'to have' (have not / has not) + past participle + rest of the sentence.
The table below will show you the conjugation of the negative form of the verb 'to have'.
Subject | Negative form of 'to have' |
---|---|
I | have not |
You | have not |
He / she / it | has not |
We | have not |
You | have not |
They | have not |
Examples:
Structure: Auxiliary verb 'to have' + subject + past participle + rest of the sentence + question mark.
Examples:
The table below shows you the situations when to use the present perfect tense.
Situation | Example |
---|---|
Actions initiated in the past and continuing in the present |
|
When reference is made to an unfinished time period |
|
Repeated action in a nonspecific period located between the past and the present |
|
Actions concluded in a very recent past |
|
When the temporal dimension is not relevant or known |
|
The use of the present simple tense can be recognized when the sentence contains one of the signal words in the table below.
Signal words | Function | Example |
---|---|---|
For | For + period of time: Means "during", indicating its duration to define a period of time before the present time. |
|
Since | Since + concrete moment: Means "from", indicating the beginning of a period of time that is still going on. |
|
Already | To express an action that has happened earlier or sooner than expected. |
|
Ever | It is used above all in questions, to explain if it has happened. |
|
Never | Used with actions that have not happened any time prior to the present. |
|
Just | Actions that happened in a very recent past. |
|
Still | For actions that have not happened or have not ended. |
|
Yet | For actions that we hoped would have already happened but have not happened. It is used in negative phrases. |
|
Train your skills by doing the exercises below!
Unlike in other platforms, all our teachers are manually verified by our professional team. Trust in the experiences of our students.
Hi, name is Laura. I come from a small town near Manchester, UK, though I now live in Bulgaria with my husband and two small children. I am an avid reader of fiction and am also particularly interested in current affairs, politics, psychology and education. I teach English full time and thoroughly enjoy my work. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family, exploring the Bulgarian countryside, cooking and learning Bulgarian.
Me as a Teacher
I am a qualified teacher with a BSc in Applied Psychology. I have been teaching English for 15 years and have worked with all ages and abilities. My lessons are very communicative and with a strong focus on speaking. I really enjoy getting to know my students and I try to incorporate their hobbies and interests into our lessons.
For the majority of my teaching career I have worked with teenagers and young adults. I have taught hundreds of young people and have found that they enjoy and respond well to my relaxed teaching approach. I am particularly well-suited to helping young people progress and have confidence in their ability.
My Lessons & Teaching Style
My teaching style is open and friendly. I encourage students to speak as much as possible and guide them through their use of English. All of my lessons are tailor-made according to the needs of my students. Whether it is conversation practice, grammar study or exam preparation (specifically KET/PET/FCE), I can help.
Each of my lessons is designed with clear learning objectives and I use a variety of learning methods/materials to make my lessons interesting and to reinforce what we have covered.
I believe learning should be fun and rewarding and students should be able to feel their own personal progress after each lesson. I genuinely care about the development every one of my students.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Laura has over 15 years of teaching experience. She can teach you more than only the language, but also the culture that comes along with it. She adjusts all her classes to your needs! Furthermore, she offers a wide variety of interactive learning materials like for example videos, songs or grammar exercises. She is eager to help you study, and you will surely learn a lot from her!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am a BA in Education graduate, with vast experience in primary, secondary and higher education levels, as well as in other activities related to education. I believe I have a diverse background which makes me a very adaptable teacher and with a lot to offer.
Most of my experience is in high school ,in adult education and university students. I have been able to develop a good relationship with my students, which has translated to better communication and an altogether more rounded experience for them and myself. My lesson planning has always aimed to reflect my students’ needs and interest applied into useful communicative language structures that they can actually use in their lives.
In my last years as a teacher, I have focused on preparing test-takers for the TOEFL. It has been a completely different experience from what I have had before, but I have helped my students accomplish the desired scores in the proposed time.
I believe in making the learning of a new language something exciting and not frightening at all, but challenging and gratifying instead. My material is dynamic and keeps my students engaged and continuesly developing their communiation skills.
I am flexible with my students' time and shcedule; naturally, it is open for deliberation if needed. I look forward to helping you get to the desired goals you set foryourself!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Daniel is great!He was very kind in every lesson, and patient in explaining things to me that I did not understand. very easy to understand !! I definitely want to continue taking classes with him!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi, welcome to my profile!
My name is Alessia and I currently live in Italy. I lived some years in America where I deepened my knowledge of English and American dialects. I am currently specializing in the Spanish and German. In all these years I have given private lessons of Italian, English, Spanish and Japanese, at the moment the most required language. Regarding Japanese, I had the opportunity to experience the teaching of the language in an American College with a native Japanese teacher, implementing the method that they themselves use to learn their language. I will help you in a simple way; conversation is really important to learn a language and even more a good method. No days spent on textbooks are needed, constancy and fun during lessons are the most important part for learning. You will see the results immediately! I am patient, flexible and I will adapt in all ways to your personal needs. I'll wait for you on my profile for the trial lesson and discover an easy and fun method to learn a language as soon as possible.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
We only did two lessons but it seems to me that Alessia has understood what I need! She is very good and knows all the terms and idioms of everyday life, just what I need! :)
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Olesya is an enthusiastic new teacher. She has lots of learning materials, and she teaches interactive classes. She is very patient and will certainly help you learn Russian in a fun manner!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
- Learn with a native English speaker: MA in Special Needs, PGCE, CELTA
- Advance essential skills: speaking, reading, listening comprehension, writing
- Prepare for TOEFL, TOEIC, IELTS, exam with confidence
- Homework assistance for primary and secondary students in bilingual schools
- Well-prepared lessons with abundant teaching resources
- Personalised strategy ans structured lessons
- Helpful suggestions for practicing at home
- Choose a lesson package that works for you
- Please indicate your city/country/time zone in your lesson request
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Kiranjit has over 10 years of teaching experience. She has experience in preparing several English exams like the IELTS. She has teaches to all ages and levels (A1-C2). Furthermore, she has lots of useful learning materials.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello! My name is Lee Moffat. I am a 37 year old English teacher from Edinburgh, Scotland. I have over twelve years teaching experience with levels ranging from complete beginners to proficiency level advanced (A1 and lower - C2 and higher). I offer either one to one online tuition or group tuition in the following areas:
Conversation skills
Pronunciation skills
IELTS preparation and TOEFL preparation
Proficiency
Grammar
Fluency
Reading
Writing/study/professional
Business English
General English
These are the main areas i have taught in however if you need more specific skills we can discuss your needs in our free first class! Asides from teaching I work as an artist, writer and supporting actor on various film and television shows. My students describe me as helpful, informative, knowledgeable and fun to learn from. My approach to teaching is to be as helpful and informative as possible taking into account each students individual needs. If you would like more information or a copy of my most recent C.V please get in touch. Look forward to hearing from you soon! Best of luck on on your English learning adventure!
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Ian is a very good teacher; he is good at describing the whole meaning of a phrase or a paragraph. He is always positive and friendly
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I am a certified TEFL English teacher. I am flexible and I teach based on your learning style. For instance, if you learn best with visuals I will incoporate vidoes and picyures into our lessons. My lesson plans focus on grammar, writing, and pronunciation. Learning a new language is fun and I make my lessons fun and innovative.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Vanessa is a new teacher and eager to help you learn English. Her lessons are fun and interactive. She teaches from A1 to B2.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello! I am a CELTA-qualified native English teacher offering lessons carefully tailored to your needs. Learn by dynamic conversation exchange, written pieces, songs lyrics, podcasts, and fun and challenging exercises. Try out a trial lesson and let’s work together to bring you closer to your English language goals!
- Intermediate Italian and Spanish speaker -
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Melissa is a teacher with great empathy. She clearly enjoys teaching English and does this in a very professional manner.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Originally from St. Petersburg, Russia, I left the country in 1994 to join an internship program in the USA, and have been living abroad ever since. Three years in the US, followed by 4 years in South Korea, where I graduated from the Keimyung University. Continuing on: lived and worked in Dubai, Australia, France and Thailand. I speak 5 languages and teach 2.
I have been teaching since my Uni years in Korea, going on twenty years now. I love my job, my students, the challenges, the joy. I know what my students are facing face along the way, their concerns and setbacks - I've been there. I am a very capable and efficient teacher, confident in getting the best results.
I am fun and resourceful, love to challenge myself and my student, captivate their interest and make sure they accomplish the highest possible goals.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
This was an amazing experience! Yulia is the best teacher I have ever met, very knowledgable and personable. Within our first session I was able to get an understanding of a few really difficult English language rules, which I struggled with for many years. She is a great coach as well, I received a great confidence and motivation boost. Once my personal and professional issues get resolved, I am going for the Intensive Course with Yulia. Thank you!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
My name is Yora Atanasova. I have been a tutor of English and Bulgarian online since 2013, in-person in non-formal language schools, and then solo online.
I have also worked as a staff training and qualification expert within the Bulgarian career guidance system in education. For a decade, I have been an independent EU expert in the fields of vocational training and guidance and non-formal education mainly.
Writing short stories and blogging is my hobby. Currently, eco skills have also become of prior importance to me; as I have moved to live in symbiosis (commensalism) with nature.
MY EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND
First of my Master's degrees is in Pedagogy, the second one is in Cultural and Historical Heritage.
I have obtained an IELTS certificate, band 7.5,, and also a 50-hour TESOL certificate through a MOOC .
METHODS
Facilitating natural learning through creative solo activity and in-group interaction and communication, with some flavor of art.
Methods used are largely based on Suggestopedia and "democratic education" under the school models of Sudbury Valley (USA) and Summerhill (UK), plus ICT.
This creative language learning in small groups through reading/writing and communication includes:
- TWO GROUP EVENTS a week: a webinar and a presentation event;
- DAILY TASKS between the group events: SOLO ones - on individual creative projects, and peer project reviews IN MICRO GROUPS of 3÷4 people.
There is much solo work of creative character to be done and enjoyed, as well as feedback e-forms to be filled in.
The two group activities take place on:
✓ Monday and Wednesday;
or
✓ Tuesday and Thursday.
The weekly project produce can be:
- A written text, original or translation;
- An audio story / video with the text display;
- A combination of both.
THIS FORMAT WILL SUIT:
✓ Creative people;,
✓ Active freedom lovers, who'd rather co-build their course;
✓ Those who like learning like in a hobby club.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
The lesson was again very useful for me but at the same time difficult. We used different learning materials that make it easier for us.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello everyone,
I have a master degree in teaching with 10 years of experience. My lessons cover a wide range of topics from science to literature. I create the learning plan according to the learner's needs. If you are looking for both enjoyable and helpful experience in English and Turkish languages for all levels, schedule a meeting with me!
See you..
Merhaba,
10 yıllık öğretmenlik deneyimiyle birlikte, eğitim alanında yüksek lisans mezunuyum. Derslerim bilimden edebiyata kadar geniş yelpazede bir çok konuyu kapsamaktadır. Öğretim planını her öğrencinin ihtiyacına göre, bireysel olarak hazırlamaktayım. Türkçe ve İngilizce dillerinde keyifli ve öğretici bir deneyim yaşamak isteyen herkes derslerime davetlidir.
Görüşmek üzere..
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I took one hour class from Nora B. Teacher and I could say that it was professional and well organized. Teacher ask you first what your purpose is. Then she organizes the schedule. Also she sends lesson materials via email. I deeply recommend her.
Cagla B.Dear Selo, Thank you. I wish you the best of luck and success on your preparation of lELTS exam.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hi, my name is Veronika.
I am a native Russian language speaker who is certified in teaching Russian as a foreign language. I am a member of Association for Language Learning and I hold a degree in Journalism as well as a Master’s in Philological Sciences.
I have lived in the UK since 2012 and have taught Russian at different levels both face to face and online. I understand the challenges of learning a language and the importance of classes that are both enjoyable and enable good progress. All my lessons are therefore planned according to individual needs using textbooks as well as my own materials and authentic Russian language sources.
I have always been interested in language acquisition, passionate about teaching and highly focused upon helping learners achieve their language goals.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Veronika has over 9 years of teaching experience. She is very patient and adjust her classes to the needs of each individual student of hers. She is kind, and you'll surely feel comfortable in her classes.
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello!
Do you want to learn Italian from zero or improve your language level? Do you need to pass a language certification's exam?
My name is Alessio, and I am and experienced Italian instructor with passion for my job.
Contact me, and we can discuss together a customized plan of lessons.
Alessio
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I learn Italian with Alessio and I would say that it's a great experience. He is a very thoughtful teacher who puts a lot of thought into how he presents the material. He paces me just right so I feel myself challenged but not overwhelmed. His lessons are engaging, useful, and he is very patient. I would highly recommend him to anyone interested in learning Italian.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
English teacher with 13 years teaching experience in Italy. Speaks English and Italian.
Hi, I'm Jason, I'm English and live in Central Italy where I teach English to students of all levels, all ages and all abilities. English for school, for exams or tests, for work or for business.
My methods are based on building your confidence to speak English, developing your listening skills so you can understand English and helping you understand the grammar rules of the English language.
Why in this way? Because my students have the best results when they are able to speak in English as soon as possible. Then, when you can converse in English and understand simple conversation you can develop all your language skills very quickly.
Of course, for some students, grammar and written English is a priority and I can help you develop these skills first if that is what you need.
For others they need to learn specific vocabulary for their work, I have given courses in business, medicine and tourism that can be adapted for all types of work situations.
I am teaching students from 3 to 70 years old and my lessons are adapted for every individual so they have the best opportunity to realize their goals.
If you are interested then please contact me for a chat and a free trial lesson.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
I met Jason about a year ago and immediately I really liked his teaching method, his patience, his ability to carry out lessons that are always different and never monotonous and, above all, his suggestions and continuous encouragement to improve. He is truly a great teacher!
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Hello! My name is Lucille and I’m from South Africa. I’m a fun and adaptable tutor who is able to adjust my teaching method according to the focus and needs of every individual student. I have 120hr TEFL certification and 4 years of experience in teaching children of all ages as well as adults. I’m a former actress, dancer, musician and makeup artist. My lessons are a warm and friendly environment where students are able to freely express themselves and are able to ask me questions at any time.
Reviews
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials
Lucille is an enthusiastic teacher. She has 4 years of teaching experience. She has taught to children and adults. Furthermore, she is eager to help you learn English!
This review was written by a coLanguage team member during a manual screening of this teacher profile.
Review
Teaching methodology
Communication
Punctuality
Internet connection
Learning materials