To express an action in the present tense, remember the following:

1. When the subject is singular, use a verb that ends in -s.

Examples:

• The farmer works hard for his family.

• She helps her mother do the chores.

In these sentences, the subjects farmer and she are both singular so the verb works and helps were used in -s form.

2. When the subject is plural, use the simple form or the base form of the verb.

Examples:

• The pupils know how to care for the environment.

• We listen attentively in class.

In these sentences, the subjects pupils and we are both plural so the verbs know and listen were used in base form.

3. When the subject is you or I, use the simple form or the base form of the verb.

Examples:

• I do my assignments alone.

• You pray before sleeping and upon waking up.

In these sentences, the simple form or the base form of the verbs do and pray were used.