Simple Past — Uses and Common Mistakes

Use the tense in a clear context and avoid common errors.

Major uses

Finished event: We met yesterday.
Past sequence: I woke up, ate breakfast, and went out.
Past state: She was tired.
Compare experience up to now: I have visited Delhi.

Common time expressions

yesterday, last Sunday, last year, in 2024, two days ago

Common mistakes

I did not went. → I did not go.
Did she ate? → Did she eat?
I goed home. → I went home.

Grammar trick

DID takes the past job. The main verb returns to V1.

Read a connected example

Last Sunday, I woke up late. I ate breakfast with my family. Then I visited a friend and played football. I returned home in the evening.

TRY IT YOURSELF

A quick check

A wrong answer is a chance to learn. Use the hint and try again.