Understanding the differences between the Present Perfect and the Simple Past can be confusing. Here are the notes from the class and some links that can help you understand it. I am also adding some exercises that you may try to test your understanding.
We use the Present Perfect (have been / have played / have done, etc.) when we talk about a time from the past until now - for example your life: Have you been to France? (in your life) No, I haven't. (Source: Basic Grammar in Use, Raymond Murphy)
Online Sources for more information:
Use of Present Perfect
Exercises
We use the Present Perfect (have been / have played / have done, etc.) when we talk about a time from the past until now - for example your life: Have you been to France? (in your life) No, I haven't. (Source: Basic Grammar in Use, Raymond Murphy)
Present Perfect | Past Simple | |
Time Period | I have been to the theatre three times this week. This week has not finished yet. | I went to the theatre last week. Last week is finished. |
New or Old Information | Maria had a broken arm again. | Maria broke her arm last month. |
Specific or Non-specific | I have been to Paris already. | I went to Paris two months ago. |
Action Finished (´for´ o r ´since`) | I had lived in California for ten years. | I lived in California for ten years. |
Online Sources for more information:
Use of Present Perfect
Exercises
