There are three basic tenses:
The Past
The Present
The Future
These basic tenses can have three aspects:
The Simple Aspect
… is used to describe habits or facts – in past, present and future.
The Past Simple
The Present Simple
The Future Simple
“When Fido was still alive, we usually went on a walk three times a day.”
“We always go on holiday to Brighton. We just love the open atmosphere there.”
“Friends will be friends.”
The Progressive Aspect
… is used to describe an action that is, was or will be ongoing / dynamic.
(lat. progressus => progredi = “moving forward”)
The Past Progressive
The Present Progressive
The Future Progressive
“I was walking down the street when she saw me.”
“Don’t disturb me! Can’t you see I am working?”
“I will be working in the garden by the time you arrive.”
The Perfect Aspect
… is used to describe an action that had, has or will have just been completed.
(lat. perfect => perficere = “finished”)
The Past Perfect
The Present Perfect
The Future Perfect
“What a shame – the plane had just left before we arrived at the airport.”
“I’m sorry I don’t have any food home.” – “That’s alright, we have just eaten.”
“By the time you move out, I will have lived in New York for three years.”
Also, a combination of perfect and progressive is possible:
The Perfect Progressive Aspect
… is used to describe the end of an action that is ongoing.
The Past Perfect Progressive
The Present Perfect Progressive
The Future Perfect Progressive
“I had been cooking for half an hour before Melinda rang at the door.”
“You don’t know Leicester Square?” – “I’m sorry, I have only been living here for three months.”
“I will have been working out for two hours by the time you arrive at the gym.”