The A-Z of English Grammar: A Practical Guide
Does the thought of learning English grammar make you feel overwhelmed? From confusing verb tenses to tricky prepositions, it's a common struggle for adult learners. But it doesn't have to be. This practical guide breaks down the essential rules you need to know, helping you build a strong foundation for fluent, confident communication.
The 12 English Verb Tenses Made Simple
Verb tenses show when an action happens. Instead of memorising all 12 at once, let's group them by time: Past, Present, and Future. Below is a simplified chart that focuses on their most common use, which is all you need to get started.
| Time | Tense | When to Use It | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Past | Simple Past | A completed action in the past. | I worked from home yesterday. |
| Present | Simple Present | Habits, facts, and routines. | She works in marketing. |
| Future | Simple Future | A decision or prediction. | I will help you with that. |
| Past | Past Continuous | An ongoing action interrupted in the past. | I was working when you called. |
| Present | Present Continuous | An action happening right now. | I am writing an email. |
| Future | Future Continuous | An ongoing action at a specific future time. | This time next week, I will be relaxing. |
| Past | Past Perfect | An action that happened before another past action. | I had finished before the meeting started. |
| Present | Present Perfect | A past action with a result in the present. | We have created a new strategy. |
| Future | Future Perfect | An action completed before a future time. | She will have finished by December. |
For a deeper dive, check out our full guide to the 12 English Verb Tenses.
Mastering the Tricky Parts of Grammar
Some grammar rules require more than just memorisation—they require understanding context. Let's tackle the most common problem areas.
Articles: A, An, The
- A/An (Indefinite): Use for general, non-specific things. Example: "I need a new laptop."
- The (Definite): Use for specific things you and the listener know about. Example: "Can you pass me the laptop?"
Prepositions: In, On, At
- At: Use for specific times and places. (e.g., at 3 PM, at the office)
- On: Use for days, dates, and surfaces. (e.g., on Monday, on the desk)
- In: Use for longer periods and enclosed spaces. (e.g., in 2025, in the building)
Active vs. Passive Voice
- Active Voice (Direct): The subject performs the action. Example: "The manager approved the budget."
- Passive Voice (Formal/Indirect): The subject receives the action. Example: "The budget was approved."
From Rules to Reality: How to Practise Grammar
Knowing the rules is one thing; using them correctly is another. To truly master grammar, you must put it into practice.
- Read Widely: Pay attention to grammar in articles, books, and professional emails.
- Write Daily: Keep a journal. Try to use a new grammar rule you learnt each day.
- Listen Actively: Notice how native speakers structure sentences in podcasts or meetings.
Grammar in Context: Why a Tutor Makes All the Difference
Self-study is powerful, but it's hard to catch your own repeated mistakes. Grammar isn't just a set of rules—it's a tool for clear communication. A personal tutor doesn't just teach you the rules; they show you how to use them in real conversation.
They can identify your specific problem areas and provide targeted exercises and immediate feedback that apps and books can't offer. Stop feeling confused and start feeling confident.
Take the next step in your English journey and make the rules finally click.
Stop Being Confused by Grammar. Find a Tutor Today.
