English Verb Tenses

English has 12 main verb tenses. For PTE and general English, focus especially on the structure, use, time adverbs/time markers, and context.

1. Present Simple

Structure: Subject + V1 (s/es for he/she/it)
Use: General truths, habits, routines, fixed schedules.
Time Adverbs: Always, usually, often, sometimes, never, every day/week, on Mondays.
Example: Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius. (General Truth)
PTE Context: She attends the business meeting every Friday.

2. Present Continuous

Structure: Subject + am/is/are + V1-ing
Use: Actions happening right now, temporary situations, or future arrangements.
Time Adverbs: Now, right now, at the moment, today, this week, currently.
Example: Look! The children are playing in the garden. (Now)
PTE Context: The company is expanding its operations this year. (Temporary)

3. Present Perfect

Structure: Subject + has/have + V3 (Past Participle)
Use: Past actions with a result in the present; life experiences; actions that started in the past and continue to now.
Time Adverbs: Already, yet, just, ever, never, recently, lately, so far, up to now, for (duration), since (starting point).
Example: I have lost my keys. (Result: I can't find them now).
PTE Context: The professor has published five papers so far.

4. Present Perfect Continuous

Structure: Subject + has/have + been + V1-ing
Use: Actions that started in the past and are still continuing, emphasizing the duration or process.
Time Adverbs: For, since, all day, lately, recently, how long.
Example: She has been working here for 10 years. (She still works here).
PTE Context: We have been analyzing the data since 8 AM.

5. Simple Past

Structure: Subject + V2 (Past form)
Use: Completed actions in the past, especially at a specific time.
Time Adverbs: Yesterday, last night/week, ago, in 2010, at that time, then.
Example: They visited the museum yesterday.
PTE Context: The CEO announced the new policy last Monday.

6. Past Continuous

Structure: Subject + was/were + V1-ing
Use: Actions in progress at a specific time in the past; interrupted actions.
Time Adverbs: At 5 PM yesterday, while, when, at that moment.
Example: I was reading the report when he called.
PTE Context: The team was preparing the presentation at 9 AM.

7. Past Perfect

Structure: Subject + had + V3 (Past Participle)
Use: An action completed before another action in the past—the “past of the past.”
Time Adverbs: Already, just, never, by the time, after, before, until.
Example: She had left by the time I arrived.
PTE Context: The project had already finished before the new manager joined.

8. Past Perfect Continuous

Structure: Subject + had + been + V1-ing
Use: An action in progress for a duration before another action in the past, emphasizing duration or cause.
Time Adverbs: For, since, how long, before, when, by the time.
Example: He had been waiting for two hours before the bus came.
PTE Context: The researchers had been studying the effect for a decade before they published the results.

9. Simple Future

Structure: Subject + will/shall + V1
Use: Predictions, spontaneous decisions, promises, and future facts.
Time Adverbs: Tomorrow, next week, in 2027, soon, later, eventually.
Example: The population will increase significantly by 2030.
PTE Context: The government will introduce new regulations soon.

10. Future Continuous

Structure: Subject + will + be + V1-ing
Use: Actions in progress at a specific time in the future; future events that are expected to happen naturally.
Time Adverbs: At this time tomorrow, next week at this hour, in two weeks.
Example: This time next year, I will be studying abroad.
PTE Context: At 10 AM tomorrow, the dean will be giving the opening speech.

11. Future Perfect

Structure: Subject + will + have + V3
Use: An action that will be completed by a specific time in the future.
Time Adverbs: By (then), by next week, by 2028, before, until.
Example: By next month, they will have completed the bridge.
PTE Context: By the end of the quarter, the sales team will have achieved its target.

12. Future Perfect Continuous

Structure: Subject + will + have + been + V1-ing
Use: Duration of an action up to a specific point in the future. (Rare, but advanced.)
Time Adverbs: By (then), for, by the time.
Example: By 2028, I will have been working here for 25 years.
PTE Context: Next April, she will have been managing this department for exactly 5 years.

📝 PTE Exam Tips for Tenses

1. Identify Time Markers

Look for words such as yesterday, tomorrow, since, for, last year, now. These are major clues for selecting the correct tense.

2. Cause and Effect

If you are describing a cause that happened first, use Past Perfect.

Because he had missed the bus, he arrived late.

3. General Truths

Always use Present Simple for general truths.

The sun rises in the East.

Do not change the tense simply because the sentence is part of a past or future discussion.

4. Sequence

In PTE Reorder Paragraphs, pay attention to tense shifts.

Past Perfect → earlier past action
Simple Past → later past action

Example:

The researchers had collected the data before they analyzed it.

⭐ Quick PTE Memory Trick

Tense	Main Clue
Present Simple	habit / fact
Present Continuous	happening now
Present Perfect	past → present result
Present Perfect Continuous	duration until now
Simple Past	finished past
Past Continuous	action in progress in past
Past Perfect	earlier past
Past Perfect Continuous	duration before past
Simple Future	future prediction/decision
Future Continuous	action in progress in future
Future Perfect	completed by future time
Future Perfect Continuous	duration up to future time

PTE-Style Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks

Below is the material from the beginning, keeping the same structure and including the answers with explanations.

Set 1: The Business Merger

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct verb form for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The two technology firms officially announced their merger yesterday. Currently, the legal teams __________ (1) the final documents to ensure compliance. This merger process __________ (2) almost two years ago, but the boards __________ (3) a mutual agreement only last week. By the end of this fiscal year, the new entity __________ (4) over 15,000 employees worldwide. For the past six months, analysts __________ (5) the potential impact of this union on global markets.

Options:

1. A) review / B) are reviewing / C) have reviewed / D) will review

2. A) begins / B) was beginning / C) began / D) had begun

3. A) reach / B) reached / C) have reached / D) were reaching

4. A) will have / B) will have had / C) have / D) are having

5. A) analyze / B) analyzed / C) have been analyzing / D) will analyze

Answers & Explanations for Set 1

1. Answer: B) are reviewing

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an action happening around the present time. Therefore, are reviewing is correct.

2. Answer: C) began

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Two years ago refers to a definite completed time in the past. Therefore, we use the Simple Past: began.

3. Answer: B) reached

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last week is a finished period in the past. Therefore, reached is correct.

4. Answer: A) will have

o Tense: Simple Future

o Why: By the end of this fiscal year refers to a future point. The sentence describes the number of employees the new entity will have at that time: will have.

5. Answer: C) have been analyzing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past six months shows duration from the past up to the present. The continuous form emphasizes the ongoing activity: have been analyzing.

Set 2: The Archaeological Discovery

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct verb form for each blank.

Passage:
Archaeologists __________ (1) a remarkable tomb in the Valley of the Kings since early 2025. Last Thursday, they __________ (2) a hidden chamber behind the main wall. By the time they entered the chamber, the ancient seal __________ (3) already __________ for over 3,000 years, preserving the contents inside. Currently, the team __________ (4) the artifacts very carefully to avoid damage. They __________ (5) their preliminary findings in a press conference next Monday.

Options:

1. A) excavated / B) have been excavating / C) will excavate / D) excavate

2. A) discovered / B) have discovered / C) were discovering / D) had discovered

3. A) was / breaking / B) broke / C) has / broken / D) had / been broken

4. A) handle / B) are handling / C) handled / D) will handle

5. A) present / B) are presenting / C) will present / D) have presented

Answers & Explanations for Set 2

1. Answer: B) have been excavating

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: Since early 2025 indicates an activity that began in the past and continues up to the present. Therefore, have been excavating is correct.

2. Answer: A) discovered

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last Thursday identifies a specific completed time in the past. Therefore, we use discovered.

3. Answer: D) had / been broken

o Tense: Past Perfect Passive

o Why: The breaking of the seal happened before another past action (they entered). Therefore, we need had been broken.

4. Answer: B) are handling

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates that the activity is happening now. Therefore, are handling is correct.

5. Answer: C) will present

o Tense: Simple Future

o Why: Next Monday refers to a future time. Therefore, will present is appropriate.

Set 3: Climate Change Report

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct verb form for each blank.

Passage:
Global temperatures __________ (1) steadily over the last century due to human activity. While the planet __________ (2) naturally for millions of years, the current rate of warming is unprecedented. Scientists __________ (3) that if we do not act now, the ice caps __________ (4) entirely by 2050. Right now, many coastal cities __________ (5) preventative measures against rising sea levels.

Options:

1. A) rise / B) are rising / C) have risen / D) will rise

2. A) has changed / B) changed / C) has been changing / D) had changed

3. A) warn / B) are warning / C) were warning / D) have warned

4. A) will melt / B) will have melted / C) melt / D) are melting

5. A) implement / B) implemented / C) have been implementing / D) will implement

Answers & Explanations for Set 3

1. Answer: C) have risen

o Tense: Present Perfect

o Why: Over the last century refers to a period extending from the past to the present. The sentence emphasizes the accumulated result, so have risen is appropriate.

2. Answer: C) has been changing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For millions of years describes a long-running process continuing up to the present. Therefore, has been changing emphasizes the ongoing process.

3. Answer: A) warn

o Tense: Present Simple

o Why: The sentence describes a general statement about what scientists say or warn. Therefore, warn is appropriate.

4. Answer: B) will have melted

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By 2050 gives a future deadline. The melting is presented as completed by that point, so will have melted is correct.

5. Answer: C) have been implementing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: The sentence describes an ongoing effort that has developed over a period leading up to the present. Therefore, have been implementing is the intended answer.

Set 4: The University Research Project

Passage:

The university __________ (1) several important studies on renewable energy over the past decade. At present, researchers __________ (2) a new solar-energy project. The research team __________ (3) the initial experiment last month, after they __________ (4) the equipment for several weeks. By next year, they __________ (5) the final report.

Options:

1. A) conducts / B) conducted / C) has conducted / D) will conduct

2. A) conducts / B) is conducting / C) conducted / D) has conducted

3. A) completed / B) has completed / C) will complete / D) was completing

4. A) tested / B) had been testing / C) have tested / D) will test

5. A) complete / B) completed / C) will have completed / D) have completed

Answers & Explanations for Set 4

1. Answer: C) has conducted

o Tense: Present Perfect

o Why: Over the past decade connects past activity with the present. The sentence emphasizes the accumulated number of studies.

2. Answer: B) is conducting

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: At present indicates an activity happening now.

3. Answer: A) completed

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last month is a definite completed period in the past.

4. Answer: B) had been testing

o Tense: Past Perfect Continuous

o Why: The testing continued for a period before the experiment was completed. The duration is emphasized.

5. Answer: C) will have completed

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By next year indicates that the report will be finished before or at that future deadline.

Set 5: Technological Development

Passage:

Artificial intelligence __________ (1) rapidly in recent years. Many companies __________ (2) AI-based systems since 2023, and researchers __________ (3) new applications at the moment. Ten years ago, few organizations __________ (4) the potential of this technology. By 2030, AI __________ (5) many aspects of professional life.

Options:

1. A) developed / B) has developed / C) is developing / D) will develop

2. A) have been adopting / B) adopted / C) adopt / D) will adopt

3. A) investigate / B) investigated / C) are investigating / D) had investigated

4. A) recognize / B) recognized / C) have recognized / D) will recognize

5. A) will transform / B) transformed / C) is transforming / D) has transformed

Answers & Explanations for Set 5

1. Answer: B) has developed

o Tense: Present Perfect

o Why: In recent years connects recent past developments with the present.

2. Answer: A) have been adopting

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: Since 2023 gives a starting point in the past, while the activity continues into the present.

3. Answer: C) are investigating

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: At the moment indicates an activity happening now.

4. Answer: B) recognized

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Ten years ago refers to a definite time in the past.

5. Answer: A) will transform

o Tense: Simple Future

o Why: By 2030 refers to a future period and describes a predicted future development.

Set 4: The Space Mission

Passage:

NASA’s Perseverance rover __________ (1) on the surface of Mars since February 2021. Last month, it __________ (2) a rock sample that showed signs of ancient water. By the time the next rover lands in 2028, this mission __________ (3) over a decade of data. Currently, the engineers at mission control __________ (4) the rover’s daily routes to avoid dangerous terrain. They __________ (5) a major software update to the rover next week to improve its navigation.

Options:

1. A) operates / B) operated / C) has been operating / D) will operate

2. A) collects / B) collected / C) has collected / D) was collecting

3. A) will gather / B) will have gathered / C) gathers / D) has gathered

4. A) plan / B) are planning / C) planned / D) have planned

5. A) send / B) are sending / C) will send / D) have sent

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has been operating

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: Since February 2021 gives a starting point in the past, and the operation continues to the present. The duration is emphasized.

2. Answer: B) collected

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last month refers to a completed period in the past. Therefore, collected is correct.

3. Answer: B) will have gathered

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By the time ... lands in 2028 gives a future deadline. The data will have been gathered before that point.

4. Answer: B) are planning

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an activity happening around now. Therefore, are planning is correct.

5. Answer: C) will send

o Tense: Simple Future

o Why: Next week refers to the future. Will send expresses the intended future action.

Set 5: The University Application

Passage:

Every year, thousands of students __________ (1) for postgraduate programs at this university. Last year, the admission office __________ (2) over 5,000 applications. Currently, they __________ (3) all the documents to ensure completeness. By the end of this month, the committee __________ (4) final decisions to all candidates. For the past three weeks, the staff __________ (5) overtime to process the unexpected surge in applications.

Options:

1. A) apply / B) are applying / C) applied / D) have applied

2. A) receives / B) received / C) has received / D) was receiving

3. A) verify / B) are verifying / C) verified / D) have verified

4. A) will send / B) will have sent / C) send / D) are sending

5. A) work / B) worked / C) have been working / D) will work

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: A) apply

o Tense: Present Simple

o Why: Every year indicates a repeated or habitual action.

2. Answer: B) received

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last year is a definite completed time in the past.

3. Answer: B) are verifying

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently shows that the action is happening now.

4. Answer: B) will have sent

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By the end of this month establishes a future deadline. The decisions will have been sent by then.

5. Answer: C) have been working

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past three weeks shows an activity that began in the past and continues into the present, with emphasis on duration.

Set 6: The Historical Novel

Passage:

The famous author __________ (1) her latest historical novel when she suddenly passed away last year. She __________ (2) on that manuscript for nearly a decade before her death. Currently, her literary estate __________ (3) a ghostwriter to complete the unfinished chapters. By the time the book hits the shelves in 2027, millions of fans __________ (4) for over five years. The publishers __________ (5) a massive marketing campaign for its release next summer.

Options:

1. A) writes / B) was writing / C) wrote / D) has written

2. A) works / B) was working / C) had been working / D) has worked

3. A) hires / B) hired / C) is hiring / D) has hired

4. A) will wait / B) will have been waiting / C) wait / D) have waited

5. A) plan / B) are planning / C) planned / D) have planned

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: B) was writing

o Tense: Past Continuous

o Why: The writing was in progress when another past event occurred: she suddenly passed away.

2. Answer: C) had been working

o Tense: Past Perfect Continuous

o Why: For nearly a decade before her death emphasizes the duration of an activity continuing up to a point in the past.

3. Answer: C) is hiring

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an action happening around the present time.

4. Answer: B) will have been waiting

o Tense: Future Perfect Continuous

o Why: By the time the book hits the shelves gives a future point, while for over five years emphasizes duration up to that point.

5. Answer: A) plan

o Tense: Present Simple

o Why: Plan can describe an established or stated plan. However, are planning would also be natural if the emphasis were on the current planning process.

Set 7: The Technology Conference

Passage:

The annual tech conference __________ (1) place in Singapore every September. This year, organizers __________ (2) the venue to a larger hall to accommodate more attendees. Yesterday, the keynote speaker __________ (3) her topic to artificial intelligence ethics. By the time the conference ends next week, over 200 startups __________ (4) their latest innovations. For the past month, the marketing team __________ (5) the event heavily on social media.

Options:

1. A) takes / B) is taking / C) took / D) has taken

2. A) change / B) are changing / C) changed / D) have changed

3. A) confirms / B) confirmed / C) has confirmed / D) was confirming

4. A) will showcase / B) will have showcased / C) showcase / D) have showcased

5. A) promotes / B) promoted / C) has been promoting / D) will promote

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: A) takes

o Tense: Present Simple

o Why: Every September indicates a regular, recurring event.

2. Answer: D) have changed

o Tense: Present Perfect

o Why: This year refers to a period connected with the present, and the sentence emphasizes the current result—the venue has been changed.

3. Answer: B) confirmed

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Yesterday is a definite completed time in the past.

4. Answer: B) will have showcased

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By the time the conference ends next week establishes a future deadline. The showcasing will be completed by then.

5. Answer: C) has been promoting

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past month shows an activity that started in the past and continues to the present.

Set 8: The Environmental Policy

Passage:

The government __________ (1) a new environmental policy last Friday to reduce carbon emissions. Currently, industries __________ (2) the new regulations to assess their impact. For decades, environmental activists __________ (3) for stricter laws, but little action __________ (4) until now. By 2030, the government __________ (5) all coal-fired power plants and replaced them with renewable energy sources.

Options:

1. A) announces / B) announced / C) has announced / D) was announcing

2. A) study / B) studied / C) are studying / D) have studied

3. A) campaign / B) campaigned / C) have been campaigning / D) will campaign

4. A) takes / B) took / C) has been taken / D) was taken

5. A) will close / B) will have closed / C) closes / D) has closed

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: B) announced

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last Friday is a specific completed time in the past.

2. Answer: C) are studying

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an activity in progress now.

3. Answer: C) have been campaigning

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For decades indicates an activity that began in the past and continues up to the present.

4. Answer: D) was taken

o Tense: Simple Past Passive

o Why: The intended meaning is that little action was taken before now. Was taken is the passive form.

5. Answer: B) will have closed

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By 2030 establishes a future deadline. The closures will be completed by then.

Set 9: The Medical Breakthrough

Passage:

Researchers at the university hospital __________ (1) a groundbreaking vaccine for the past five years. They __________ (2) the final clinical trial results just two days ago. Currently, the team __________ (3) the data for publication in a prestigious medical journal. By the time the vaccine receives regulatory approval, it __________ (4) rigorous testing on over 10,000 volunteers. The pharmaceutical company __________ (5) mass production immediately after approval is granted.

Options:

1. A) develop / B) developed / C) have been developing / D) will develop

2. A) publish / B) published / C) have published / D) were publishing

3. A) analyzes / B) analyzed / C) is analyzing / D) will analyze

4. A) undergoes / B) underwent / C) has undergone / D) will have undergone

5. A) starts / B) started / C) has started / D) will start

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have been developing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past five years emphasizes an ongoing activity that began in the past and continues to the present.

2. Answer: B) published

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Two days ago identifies a definite completed time in the past.

3. Answer: C) is analyzing

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an action happening now.

4. Answer: D) will have undergone

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By the time the vaccine receives regulatory approval establishes a future point. The testing will have been completed by then.

5. Answer: D) will start

o Tense: Simple Future

o Why: Immediately after approval is granted refers to a future action.

Set 10: The Economic Report

Passage:

Economists __________ (1) that inflation will rise steadily over the next decade. Last quarter, the central bank __________ (2) interest rates to curb spending. Currently, consumers __________ (3) their purchasing habits in response to rising prices. For the past several months, the housing market __________ (4) a significant slowdown. By 2028, the government __________ (5) the national debt to manageable levels if current policies continue.

Options:

1. A) predict / B) are predicting / C) predicted / D) have predicted

2. A) raises / B) raised / C) has raised / D) was raising

3. A) adjust / B) are adjusting / C) adjusted / D) have adjusted

4. A) experiences / B) experienced / C) has been experiencing / D) will experience

5. A) reduces / B) will reduce / C) will have reduced / D) has reduced

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: A) predict

o Tense: Present Simple

o Why: This expresses a general prediction or current professional opinion.

2. Answer: B) raised

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last quarter refers to a completed period in the past.

3. Answer: B) are adjusting

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an ongoing action.

4. Answer: C) has been experiencing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past several months emphasizes an ongoing situation continuing into the present.

5. Answer: C) will have reduced

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By 2028 gives a future deadline, by which the reduction is expected to have been completed.

Set 11: The Art Exhibition

Passage:

The famous museum __________ (1) a new contemporary art exhibition next month. Curators __________ (2) artworks from around the world for the past two years to prepare for this event. Last week, they __________ (3) a rare painting by a renowned artist for the collection. Currently, the installation team __________ (4) the lighting and layout for each gallery. By the time the exhibition opens, over 300 pieces __________ (5) carefully arranged for public viewing.

Options:

1. A) opens / B) is opening / C) opened / D) has opened

2. A) collect / B) collected / C) have been collecting / D) will collect

3. A) acquire / B) acquired / C) have acquired / D) were acquiring

4. A) finalizes / B) finalized / C) is finalizing / D) has finalized

5. A) are arranged / B) will be arranged / C) will have been arranged / D) have been arranged

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: B) is opening

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Next month refers to a planned future arrangement. Present Continuous can be used for fixed future arrangements.

2. Answer: C) have been collecting

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past two years emphasizes an activity that began in the past and continues to the present.

3. Answer: B) acquired

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last week is a completed period in the past.

4. Answer: C) is finalizing

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an action happening now.

5. Answer: C) will have been arranged

o Tense: Future Perfect Passive

o Why: By the time the exhibition opens establishes a future deadline. The pieces will already have been arranged by that point.

Set 12: The Sports Tournament

Passage:

The international sports tournament __________ (1) every four years in different host countries. This year, the host nation __________ (2) new stadiums to accommodate the influx of fans. Yesterday, the organizing committee __________ (3) the official match schedule. For the past six months, athletes from over 100 countries __________ (4) intensively for their events. By the closing ceremony next month, millions of viewers worldwide __________ (5) the broadcasts on television and online.

Options:

1. A) takes place / B) is taking place / C) took place / D) has taken place

2. A) builds / B) is building / C) built / D) has built

3. A) releases / B) released / C) has released / D) was releasing

4. A) train / B) trained / C) have been training / D) will train

5. A) watch / B) will watch / C) will have watched / D) have watched

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: A) takes place

o Tense: Present Simple

o Why: Every four years indicates a regular recurring event.

2. Answer: B) is building

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: This year describes a temporary project currently in progress.

3. Answer: B) released

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Yesterday is a definite completed time in the past.

4. Answer: C) have been training

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past six months emphasizes the duration of training from the past until now.

5. Answer: C) will have watched

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By the closing ceremony next month gives a future deadline. The viewing is expected to have occurred by then.

Set 13: The Corporate Restructuring

Passage:

The global corporation __________ (1) a major restructuring plan since early 2025. Last quarter, they __________ (2) three underperforming divisions to cut costs. Currently, the HR department __________ (3) employees about the upcoming changes. By the end of the year, the company __________ (4) its entire operations into a single centralized system. For the past few weeks, managers __________ (5) training sessions to prepare their teams for the transition.

Options:

1. A) implements / B) implemented / C) has been implementing / D) will implement

2. A) closes / B) closed / C) has closed / D) was closing

3. A) informs / B) informed / C) is informing / D) has informed

4. A) consolidates / B) will consolidate / C) will have consolidated / D) has consolidated

5. A) conduct / B) conducted / C) have been conducting / D) will conduct

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has been implementing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: Since early 2025 gives a starting point in the past, and the restructuring process continues into the present.

2. Answer: B) closed

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last quarter refers to a completed period in the past.

3. Answer: C) is informing

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an activity happening at the present time.

4. Answer: C) will have consolidated

o Tense: Future Perfect

o Why: By the end of the year establishes a future deadline. The consolidation will be completed by then.

5. Answer: C) have been conducting

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past few weeks indicates an activity that started in the past and continues into the present, with emphasis on duration.

English Verb Tenses — Sets 14–28

Set 14: The Aviation Industry

Passage:

The aviation industry __________ (1) a significant transformation over the past decade. Last year, airlines __________ (2) over 4 billion passengers globally. Currently, manufacturers __________ (3) more fuel-efficient engines to reduce carbon emissions. By 2030, many major carriers __________ (4) their entire fleets to hybrid-electric aircraft. For the past several months, engineers __________ (5) new battery technology that could revolutionize short-haul flights.

Options:

1. A) undergoes / B) underwent / C) has undergone / D) will undergo

2. A) transport / B) transported / C) have transported / D) were transporting

3. A) develop / B) developed / C) are developing / D) have developed

4. A) convert / B) will convert / C) will have converted / D) have converted

5. A) test / B) tested / C) have been testing / D) will test

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has undergone

o Why: “Over the past decade” refers to an unspecified period from the past up to the present. We use the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: B) transported

o Why: “Last year” refers to a specific completed time in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are developing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening around now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have converted

o Why: “By 2030” gives a future deadline. The action will be completed before that time. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been testing

o Why: “For the past several months” emphasizes an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 15: The Film Production

Passage:

The award-winning director __________ (1) her new film in New Zealand next spring. She __________ (2) the screenplay for over three years before she finally started shooting last month. Currently, the cast and crew __________ (3) scenes in the mountainous regions. By the time filming wraps in December, they __________ (4) over 200 hours of footage. The production team __________ (5) the post-production work immediately after the shoot ends.

Options:

1. A) shoots / B) is shooting / C) shot / D) has shot

2. A) writes / B) wrote / C) had been writing / D) has written

3. A) film / B) filmed / C) are filming / D) have filmed

4. A) record / B) will record / C) will have recorded / D) have recorded

5. A) starts / B) started / C) has started / D) will start

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: B) is shooting

o Why: “Next spring” indicates a planned future arrangement. The Present Continuous can be used for scheduled future events.

2. Answer: C) had been writing

o Why: The action continued for three years before another action in the past (“started shooting”). We use the Past Perfect Continuous.

3. Answer: C) are filming

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have recorded

o Why: “By the time filming wraps in December” establishes a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: D) will start

o Why: The post-production work will happen after the future event “the shoot ends.” We use the Simple Future.

Set 16: The Urban Planning Project

Passage:

City officials __________ (1) a new urban development plan for the past two years. They __________ (2) the final proposal to the public just last week. Currently, residents __________ (3) their feedback through an online portal. By the time the project is approved next year, architects __________ (4) the designs for over 50 new buildings. The construction company __________ (5) the first phase of the project in early 2027.

Options:

1. A) design / B) designed / C) have been designing / D) will design

2. A) present / B) presented / C) have presented / D) were presenting

3. A) submit / B) submitted / C) are submitting / D) have submitted

4. A) finalize / B) will finalize / C) will have finalized / D) have finalized

5. A) begins / B) began / C) has begun / D) will begin

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have been designing

o Why: “For the past two years” describes an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

2. Answer: B) presented

o Why: “Last week” is a specific completed time in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are submitting

o Why: “Currently” means the action is happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have finalized

o Why: “By the time” establishes a future deadline. The designs will be completed before then. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: D) will begin

o Why: “In early 2027” refers to a future event. We use the Simple Future.

Set 17: The Scientific Discovery

Passage:

Scientists __________ (1) a new species of deep-sea fish during their recent expedition. The team __________ (2) the ocean floor for several weeks before making this remarkable discovery. Currently, they __________ (3) the fish's genetic makeup in their laboratory. By the time they publish their findings next year, they __________ (4) the creature's behavior patterns extensively. This discovery __________ (5) as one of the most significant marine biology breakthroughs of the decade.

Options:

1. A) discover / B) discovered / C) have discovered / D) were discovering

2. A) explore / B) explored / C) had been exploring / D) have explored

3. A) analyze / B) analyzed / C) are analyzing / D) have analyzed

4. A) study / B) will study / C) will have studied / D) have studied

5. A) regards / B) is regarded / C) has regarded / D) was regarded

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: B) discovered

o Why: “During their recent expedition” refers to a completed past event. We use the Simple Past.

2. Answer: C) had been exploring

o Why: The exploration continued for several weeks before another past action, the discovery. We use the Past Perfect Continuous.

3. Answer: C) are analyzing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have studied

o Why: “By the time they publish” gives a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: B) is regarded

o Why: This is a general present opinion, and the sentence is passive: the discovery is regarded by people. We use the Present Simple Passive.

Set 18: The Education Reform

Passage:

The government __________ (1) a new national curriculum for schools since 2023. Last month, education ministers __________ (2) the draft version for public consultation. Currently, teachers and parents __________ (3) the proposed changes. By the start of the next academic year, all schools __________ (4) the new guidelines. For the past few weeks, training sessions __________ (5) for educators to prepare them for the transition.

Options:

1. A) develops / B) developed / C) has been developing / D) will develop

2. A) releases / B) released / C) have released / D) were releasing

3. A) review / B) reviewed / C) are reviewing / D) have reviewed

4. A) implement / B) will implement / C) will have implemented / D) have implemented

5. A) conduct / B) conducted / C) have been conducted / D) will conduct

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has been developing

o Why: “Since 2023” indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

2. Answer: B) released

o Why: “Last month” is a specific completed time in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are reviewing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have implemented

o Why: “By the start of the next academic year” gives a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been conducted

o Why: “For the past few weeks” indicates an action continuing over a period up to now, and the sentence is passive. The intended form is Present Perfect Passive.

o Note: “Have been conducted” is grammatically Present Perfect Passive, not Present Perfect Continuous Passive.

Set 19: The Stock Market

Passage:

Stock prices __________ (1) sharply over the past month due to economic uncertainty. Last week, the central bank __________ (2) interest rates, causing a temporary dip in the market. Currently, investors __________ (3) the situation cautiously before making new commitments. By the end of the quarter, analysts predict that the market __________ (4) most of its recent losses. For the past several days, trading volume __________ (5) significantly above average.

Options:

1. A) fluctuate / B) fluctuated / C) have fluctuated / D) will fluctuate

2. A) adjusts / B) adjusted / C) has adjusted / D) was adjusting

3. A) assess / B) assessed / C) are assessing / D) have assessed

4. A) recovers / B) will recover / C) will have recovered / D) has recovered

5. A) remains / B) remained / C) has remained / D) will remain

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have fluctuated

o Why: “Over the past month” refers to a period continuing up to the present. We use the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: B) adjusted

o Why: “Last week” refers to a specific completed time in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are assessing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening around now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have recovered

o Why: “By the end of the quarter” establishes a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) has remained

o Why: “For the past several days” indicates a state continuing to the present. Remain is generally treated as a stative verb here, so the Present Perfect is appropriate.

Set 20: The Fashion Industry

Passage:

The fashion industry __________ (1) significant criticism for its environmental impact over the last decade. Last year, several major brands __________ (2) to adopt more sustainable practices. Currently, designers __________ (3) eco-friendly materials in their new collections. By 2028, many experts believe the industry __________ (4) to a circular economy model. For the past few months, sustainability conferences __________ (5) worldwide to address these urgent issues.

Options:

1. A) faces / B) faced / C) has faced / D) will face

2. A) agree / B) agreed / C) have agreed / D) were agreeing

3. A) incorporate / B) incorporated / C) are incorporating / D) have incorporated

4. A) shifts / B) will shift / C) will have shifted / D) has shifted

5. A) hold / B) held / C) have been held / D) will hold

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has faced

o Why: “Over the last decade” refers to a period extending from the past to the present. We use the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: B) agreed

o Why: “Last year” is a specific past time. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are incorporating

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening around now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have shifted

o Why: “By 2028” establishes a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been held

o Why: “For the past few months” describes conferences that have taken place during a period continuing to the present. Because the conferences are held by organizers, the form is passive: Present Perfect Passive.

Set 21: The Healthcare System

Passage:

The country's healthcare system __________ (1) under immense pressure since the beginning of the pandemic. Last winter, hospitals __________ (2) a record number of patients. Currently, the government __________ (3) new funding to expand intensive care capacity. By next spring, they __________ (4) over 5,000 new hospital beds nationwide. For years, healthcare workers __________ (5) for better working conditions and pay.

Options:

1. A) operates / B) operated / C) has operated / D) has been operating

2. A) treats / B) treated / C) have treated / D) were treating

3. A) allocates / B) allocated / C) is allocating / D) has allocated

4. A) adds / B) will add / C) will have added / D) has added

5. A) campaign / B) campaigned / C) have been campaigning / D) will campaign

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: D) has been operating

o Why: “Since the beginning of the pandemic” indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We emphasize the ongoing process, so we use the Present Perfect Continuous.

2. Answer: B) treated

o Why: “Last winter” is a specific past time. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) is allocating

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening around now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have added

o Why: “By next spring” gives a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been campaigning

o Why: “For years” indicates a continuous action that began in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 22: The Space Tourism Venture

Passage:

The space tourism company __________ (1) its first commercial flight next year. Engineers __________ (2) the spacecraft for over five years before it passed all safety tests last month. Currently, they __________ (3) the final interior designs for passenger comfort. By the time the flight launches, over 1,000 customers __________ (4) reservations. The company __________ (5) additional flights based on initial demand.

Options:

1. A) launches / B) is launching / C) launched / D) has launched

2. A) develop / B) developed / C) had been developing / D) have developed

3. A) finalize / B) finalized / C) are finalizing / D) have finalized

4. A) make / B) will make / C) will have made / D) have made

5. A) schedules / B) scheduled / C) has scheduled / D) will schedule

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: B) is launching

o Why: “Next year” refers to a planned future arrangement. We use the Present Continuous for arrangements.

2. Answer: C) had been developing

o Why: The development continued for five years before another completed past action. We use the Past Perfect Continuous.

3. Answer: C) are finalizing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have made

o Why: “By the time the flight launches” establishes a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: D) will schedule

o Why: The scheduling will happen based on future demand. We use the Simple Future.

Set 23: The Agricultural Research

Passage:

Agricultural scientists __________ (1) new drought-resistant crop varieties for the past decade. Last year, they __________ (2) a breakthrough strain of wheat that requires 30% less water. Currently, farmers in arid regions __________ (3) this new strain in pilot projects. By 2030, this technology __________ (4) on millions of hectares worldwide. For centuries, farmers __________ (5) for solutions to water scarcity, but modern science is finally providing answers.

Options:

1. A) develop / B) developed / C) have been developing / D) will develop

2. A) introduce / B) introduced / C) have introduced / D) were introducing

3. A) test / B) tested / C) are testing / D) have tested

4. A) deploys / B) will deploy / C) will have been deployed / D) has been deployed

5. A) search / B) searched / C) have been searching / D) will search

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have been developing

o Why: “For the past decade” indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

2. Answer: B) introduced

o Why: “Last year” is a specific completed time in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are testing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have been deployed

o Why: “By 2030” gives a future deadline. The technology will have been deployed by then, and the sentence is passive. We use the Future Perfect Passive.

5. Answer: C) have been searching

o Why: “For centuries” indicates an action that began in the distant past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 24: The Cybersecurity Threat

Passage:

Cybersecurity experts __________ (1) a rise in ransomware attacks over the past three months. Last week, a major hospital __________ (2) by a sophisticated cyberattack. Currently, the IT team __________ (3) new security protocols to prevent future breaches. By the end of this year, the company __________ (4) its entire network infrastructure to a more secure system. For the past several weeks, employees __________ (5) training on how to identify phishing attempts.

Options:

1. A) report / B) reported / C) have reported / D) are reporting

2. A) targets / B) targeted / C) was targeted / D) has been targeted

3. A) implements / B) implemented / C) is implementing / D) has implemented

4. A) upgrades / B) will upgrade / C) will have upgraded / D) has upgraded

5. A) receive / B) received / C) have been receiving / D) will receive

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have reported

o Why: “Over the past three months” refers to a period extending to the present. We use the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: C) was targeted

o Why: “Last week” refers to a specific past time, and the sentence is passive. We use the Simple Past Passive.

3. Answer: C) is implementing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening around now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have upgraded

o Why: “By the end of this year” gives a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been receiving

o Why: “For the past several weeks” indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 25: The Renewable Energy Transition

Passage:

Many countries __________ (1) their reliance on fossil fuels since the Paris Agreement. Last year, renewable energy sources __________ (2) for 30% of global electricity generation. Currently, governments __________ (3) incentives for solar and wind power projects. By 2040, experts predict that most nations __________ (4) carbon neutrality. For decades, environmentalists __________ (5) for this shift, and it is finally happening.

Options:

1. A) reduce / B) reduced / C) have been reducing / D) will reduce

2. A) account / B) accounted / C) have accounted / D) were accounting

3. A) offer / B) offered / C) are offering / D) have offered

4. A) achieve / B) will achieve / C) will have achieved / D) have achieved

5. A) advocate / B) advocated / C) have been advocating / D) will advocate

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have been reducing

o Why: “Since the Paris Agreement” indicates an ongoing process from the past to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

2. Answer: B) accounted

o Why: “Last year” is a specific completed period in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are offering

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening around now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have achieved

o Why: “By 2040” establishes a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been advocating

o Why: “For decades” indicates a continuing action that began in the past. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 26: The Artificial Intelligence Revolution

Passage:

AI technology __________ (1) rapidly over the past five years. Last month, a new AI model __________ (2) human-level performance in complex reasoning tests. Currently, researchers __________ (3) applications for this model in various industries. By the end of the decade, AI __________ (4) millions of jobs and created many new ones. For years, experts __________ (5) about the ethical implications of advanced AI systems.

Options:

1. A) advances / B) advanced / C) has advanced / D) will advance

2. A) achieves / B) achieved / C) has achieved / D) was achieving

3. A) explore / B) explored / C) are exploring / D) have explored

4. A) replaces / B) will replace / C) will have replaced / D) has replaced

5. A) debate / B) debated / C) have been debating / D) will debate

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has advanced

o Why: “Over the past five years” refers to a period continuing up to the present. We use the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: B) achieved

o Why: “Last month” is a specific completed time in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are exploring

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have replaced

o Why: “By the end of the decade” gives a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been debating

o Why: “For years” indicates an action that started in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 27: The Olympic Games

Passage:

The Olympic Games __________ (1) every four years since the ancient Greeks. The next Summer Olympics __________ (2) place in Paris in 2026. Currently, athletes from around the world __________ (3) intensively for their events. By the time the games begin, the host city __________ (4) all its new infrastructure projects. For the past two years, the organizing committee __________ (5) volunteers for the event.

Options:

1. A) take place / B) took place / C) have taken place / D) will take place

2. A) takes / B) will take / C) took / D) has taken

3. A) train / B) trained / C) are training / D) have trained

4. A) completes / B) will complete / C) will have completed / D) has completed

5. A) recruits / B) recruited / C) has been recruiting / D) will recruit

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) have taken place

o Why: “Since the ancient Greeks” connects a past starting point with the present. The intended tense is the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: B) will take

o Why: “In 2026” refers to a future event. We use the Simple Future.

3. Answer: C) are training

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have completed

o Why: “By the time the games begin” establishes a future deadline. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) has been recruiting

o Why: “For the past two years” indicates an action that began in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Set 28: The Banking Sector

Passage:

The banking sector __________ (1) significant regulatory changes since the 2008 financial crisis. Last quarter, several major banks __________ (2) their compliance departments to meet new requirements. Currently, financial analysts __________ (3) the impact of these changes on profitability. By 2027, most banks __________ (4) fully digital banking systems. For the past decade, regulators __________ (5) tighter controls to prevent future financial collapses.

Options:

1. A) undergoes / B) underwent / C) has undergone / D) will undergo

2. A) expands / B) expanded / C) has expanded / D) was expanding

3. A) assess / B) assessed / C) are assessing / D) have assessed

4. A) adopt / B) will adopt / C) will have adopted / D) have adopted

5. A) introduces / B) introduced / C) have been introducing / D) will introduce

Answers & Explanations

1. Answer: C) has undergone

o Why: “Since the 2008 financial crisis” connects a past event with the present. We use the Present Perfect.

2. Answer: B) expanded

o Why: “Last quarter” refers to a specific completed period in the past. We use the Simple Past.

3. Answer: C) are assessing

o Why: “Currently” indicates an action happening now. We use the Present Continuous.

4. Answer: C) will have adopted

o Why: “By 2027” establishes a future deadline. The adoption will be completed by then. We use the Future Perfect.

5. Answer: C) have been introducing

o Why: “For the past decade” indicates a continuing action that began in the past and continues to the present. We use the Present Perfect Continuous.

Saturday, 15 August 2026