Grammar: More on the Present Tense

1. Getting Familiar with the Present Tense

In German language, the present tense is used to talk about current events, actions that are happening now or in the near future.
This tense can also express general truths and facts.

2. Regular Verb Conjugation in Present Tense

Present tense conjugation for regular verbs involves the root of the verb and the proper ending, that depends on the subject.
For example, with the verb spielen (to play), the conjugation would be: ich spiele, du spielst, er/sie/es spielt, wir spielen, ihr spielt, sie spielen, Sie spielen.

3. Stem-Changing Verbs

Some verbs in German have a vowel change in the stem in the present tense, these are known as stem-changing verbs.
For instance, the verb fahren (to drive) becomes: ich fahre, du fährst, er/sie/es fährt, wir fahren, ihr fahrt, sie fahren, Sie fahren.
Only the du and er/sie/es forms undergo a vowel change in the present tense.

4. Irregular Verbs in Present Tense

Irregular verbs don’t follow the typical conjugation patterns and must be learned individually.
An example of an irregular verb is sein (to be): ich bin, du bist, er/sie/es ist, wir sind, ihr seid, sie sind, Sie sind.

5. Present Tense with Modal Verbs

German modal verbs are used in combination with an infinitive verb at the end of the sentence.
For example, können (can/to be able to) becomes: ich kann, du kannst, er/sie/es kann, wir können, ihr könnt, sie können, Sie können.

6. Common Errors to Avoid

Avoid confusing verb endings for different pronouns. The different endings are crucial for correct communication.
Be careful with stem-changing verbs, they can often be missed when speaking or writing.
Take note of irregular verbs and their conjugations. These can often only be learned through memorization and practice.

7. Practice Makes Perfect

Engage in regular practice to get comfortable with present tense verb conjugation.
Try translating sentences to practise the varied verb forms.
Regular reading and listening work can also further help to familiarise yourself with patterns and regularities.