Present Perfect: when to use it
Forming it is easy: have / has + the third form. Knowing when to use it is the hard part — so that's what this page is about.
What it is
The Present Perfect links the past to now. Something happened before, and it still matters at the moment you're speaking — as experience, as a situation that hasn't ended, or as a result you can see.
That's also why it never comes with a finished time. The moment you say yesterday, last year or in 2019, the action belongs to the past, and English switches to the Past Simple.
When to use it
Five situations cover almost every use — each with what it means, its signal words, an example and why.
Common mistakes
How learners most often get it wrong — and the fix.
- I have seen him yesterday.I saw him yesterday.
Yesterday is a finished time, so the Past Simple.
- I live here since 2020.I've lived here since 2020.
It started in 2020 and is still true — that's the Present Perfect.
- Did you finish it yet?Have you finished it yet?
yet asks about up to now — Present Perfect.
- I've been to Paris last year.I went to Paris last year.
Last year is finished — Past Simple.
- She has went home.She has gone home.
After have / has, the third form: gone, not went.
Practice
8 quick questions, one at a time. Mostly on when, not on form.
Answer, and you'll see why here.
Phrases from real life
The Present Perfect people actually say — at work, meeting someone, changing plans.
- Have you ever…?
Small talk and job interviews: asking about experience.
Have you ever worked with clients abroad?
- Have you had a chance to…?
Work email and chat: a polite nudge.
Have you had a chance to look at my report?
- Something has come up.
Cancelling or moving plans, without the details.
Sorry, something has come up. Can we meet on Friday?
- It's been ages!
Meeting someone you haven't seen for a long time.
Anna! It's been ages! How are you?
- I've heard a lot about you.
Meeting someone for the first time.
Nice to meet you. I've heard a lot about you.
- Have you met…?
Introducing two people to each other.
Have you met Tom? He's our new designer.
- I've changed my mind.
Taking back a decision: the change is now.
I've changed my mind. I'll have the fish.
- I haven't decided yet.
When you're asked for an answer you don't have.
Are you taking the job? I haven't decided yet.