Introduction
The Present Perfect (Simple) and Present Perfect Progressive (Continuous) tenses are used to connect past actions or states with the present.

Although both tenses refer to past events, they emphasize different aspects of the action or situation. This guide will help you understand when to use each tense, with examples and key words for better clarity.

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Present Perfect

Structure:
– Verb: Verb(ed) 97% of all verbs; (*) irregular verbs of the 3rd column 70% usage.
– Auxiliary: “to have” in the Present tense (have/has)
– Negative Forms: haven’t/hasn’t

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Situation 1) To Explain a Present Result or Consequence
The Present Perfect is used to show a present result or consequence of an action that happened at an unspecified time in the past. The exact time is not important; what matters is the current relevance of the past action.

– Examples:
– I have finished my homework. (Now I can relax.)
– She has lost her keys. (Now she can’t get into her house.)
– They have built a new school. (Now it’s ready to use.)
– I need to remove my belt, I have eaten too many lobsters.
– Her hair is all wet because she has played futebòl.

Key Words:
– Yet, already, so far, up until now, ever, never, times (I’ve sent it 5 times already!)
– Examples:
– I haven’t seen that movie yet. Is it good?
– Have you ever been to Paris?
– She has already completed her assignment.

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Bonus: Other Situation, Variations of results in the Present caused by a Past action:

Situation 2) To Describe Life Experiences
The Present Perfect is used to talk about life experiences without specifying when they happened. The focus is on whether or not something has ever occurred.

– Examples:
– I have visited Japan twice, It’s very beautiful.. (But I don’t say when.)
– He has never tried sushi. (At no time in his life has he done this.)

Situation 3) To Describe Actions That Started in the Past and Continue to the Present
When describing actions or situations that began in the past and are still relevant or ongoing in the present, the Present Perfect is often used.

– Examples
– She has lived in London for five years. (She still lives there.)
– They have known each other since high school. (They are still friends.)

Situation 4. To Announce News or New Information
This tense is used to introduce news or to give new information or News about something that has happened previously (unspecified because not important at this point).

– Examples:
– The company has just launched a new product.
– The President has announced new policies. (no more tax!)
– The police have finally arrested the former president.
– The government has launched the new prevention campaign.
(have / has for a group; can you spot the difference?)

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