Past Simple or Present Perfect?
Last month
Past Simple
My sister has played football yesterday.
My sister played football yesterday.
How long have you studied English?
I have studied English for (three years.)
OR: I have studied English since (I was 11.)
A: Would you like something to eat?
B: No, thanks. I ---- lunch. (just / have)
have just had
Today
Present Perfect
We are living in Algete for three years.
We have lived in Algete for three years.
Did you go on holiday last summer?
Yes, I went to... (Mallorca.)
No, I stayed at home.
A: Do you know where Julia is?
B: Yes, I ---- her. (just / see)
have just seen
Since Christmas
Present Perfect
Where have you been born?
Where were you born?
What did you do last night?
Last night, I (went to a party) / (watched TV) / (played basketball.)
A: What does Tim think about your plan?
B: I ---- (not / tell / yet)
haven't told him yet
When I was younger
Past Simple
Did you speak to Sofia yet today?
Have you spoken to Sofia yet today?
Have you received a present this month?
Yes, I have. I got...
No, I haven’t, but I'd like to get...
Joe goes out. Five minutes later, the phone rings and the caller says 'Can I speak to Joe?'
You say: I'm afraid he ---- (just / go out).
has just gone out
This morning
What time is it now?
If it is afternoon/night: use the past simple.
If it is still the morning (before 12.00 midday): use the present perfect.
He didn’t visit his grandparents since February.
He hasn’t visited his grandparents since February.
How was your weekend?
It was great / terrible / boring.
I went to the beach / I broke my leg / I studied French.
A: What's in the newspaper today?
B: I don't know. I ----.(not / read / yet)
haven't read it yet