Present simple in stories and commentary

The idea

Use the present simple for events in plot summaries, rapid live commentary and descriptions of steps. Add -s or -es to the verb with a singular third-person subject.

Examples

• In the novel, a baker finds a hidden letter.
• The film ends when the sisters return home.
• Maya passes to Leo, and Leo scores!
• The runner turns the corner and takes the lead.
• First, the guide places the map on the table.
• Next, each player chooses a card.

Watch out

Do not assume the present always means a repeated habit. A summary can describe a single event in a fictional plot; past tense also works when recounting real past events.

Try it yourself

1. Choose the correct option. In the story, a musician ___ a lost dog. (find / finds)

   Show answer or example answer

   finds

   finds agrees with the singular musician and presents one plot event.

2. Choose the correct option. Live commentary: The ball ___ the post! (hit / hits)

   Show answer or example answer

   hits

   hits reports the ball’s sudden contact in live commentary.

3. Choose the correct option. Instructions: Each guest ___ a name on the label. (write / writes)

   Show answer or example answer

   writes

   writes agrees with each guest in the sequence of instructions.

Use it today

Summarise a story in two sentences, then describe two steps in a demonstration.