Grammar A2 - Past Simple

Here is a summary of the video on using the simple past tense:

• When to Use the Simple Past Tense: The simple past tense is used for events or actions that are completely finished and 100% in the past. This concept can be visualized as a closed, taped-shut box that cannot be changed.
• The Verb "To Be": In the simple past, the present forms "am" and "is" change to "was," while "are" changes to "were". For instance, "I am happy" becomes "I was happy," and "they are busy" becomes "they were busy".
• Regular Verbs: For most regular action verbs, an "-ed" suffix is added to the end of the word to show that the action is completed. Examples include "walk" becoming "walked" and "play" becoming "played".
• Irregular Verbs: Irregular verbs do not use the "-ed" suffix and change their spelling entirely. Examples include "go" becoming "went," "see" becoming "saw," and "eat" becoming "ate". These forms must be memorized.
• Negative Sentences and Questions: When formulating a question or a negative statement in the past, the auxiliary word "did" (or "didn't") is used. Because "did" already indicates the past tense, the main action verb remains in its base/present form (e.g., saying "I didn't go" rather than "I didn't went").