English Grammar Guide: A Comprehensive Overview of Key Concepts
Pronouns
Subject Pronouns
I, you, he, she, it, we, you, they (e.g., I live)
Object Pronouns
me, you, him, her, it, us, you, them (e.g., tell me)
Possessive Adjectives
my, your, his, her, its, our, your, their (e.g., my book)
Possessive Pronouns
mine, yours, his, hers, ours, yours, theirs (e.g., must be yours)
Comparatives and Superlatives
Comparatives
taller, hotter, more modern, busier, more dangerous, less interesting, better, worse, further (e.g., …+than…)
Superlatives
the tallest, the hottest, the most modern, the busiest, the most dangerous, the best, the worst, the furthest, the least interesting
Verb Tenses
Present Simple
Used for habits, verbs with and without action (have, think, see), and future timetables (e.g., train leaves at 5 in the morning)
Present Continuous
Used for actions happening now, action verbs (play, do), and near future (e.g., tomorrow)
Genitive Case
Used for people, animals, and organizations (e.g., Mary’s house)
Possessive Objects
noun+of+possessive pronoun or number (e.g., the name of the Street)
Own (for Emphasis)
(e.g., my own house)
Past Simple
Used for past actions at a specific time and completed actions.
Past Continuous
Used for past actions at a specific time and in progress, describing a past action interrupted by another action (past simple).
Used To
Used for past habits that are no longer happening.
Prepositions
Place
In (inside), Under (below), Inside (within an enclosed space), On/Onto (on top of), In front of
Movement
Over (above, over), Across (through, crossing), Through (through, under something), Along (along), Past (passing, leaving behind), Down (down)
Future Tenses
Be Going To + Infinitive
Used for plans and predictions about the future or when you know you are going to do something specific (e.g., I’m going to work on Saturday).
Present Continuous
Used for specific things in the future (e.g., She is getting married in December).
Will/Shall + Infinitive
Used for decisions, promises, suggestions, offers (e.g., I think she will/won’t win.) Shall is only used for I or We for offers or suggestions in question form.
Conditionals
First Conditional
if+present simple, will/won’t+infinitive (e.g., if I work hard, I’ll pass my exam). Used for possible future situations and consequences (can, might, must, may, should).
Second Conditional
if+past simple, would/wouldn’t+infinitive (e.g., If I had a job, I’d buy a flat). Used for hypothetical or imaginary situations in the present or future and their consequences, or something unlikely.
Third Conditional
if+past perfect, would have+past participle (e.g., If I’d known about the meeting, I would have gone). Used for things that could have been different in the past, hypothetical or imaginary.
Present Perfect Tenses
Present Perfect Simple
have/has+past participle. Used for past actions where the exact time is unknown, recent past actions often with just, and situations that started in the past and continue in the present (e.g., I’ve lived here for 2 years). Since: this morning, 5 o’clock, September, 2004, I was a child. For: 2 months, 2 minutes, years, ages, a long time.
Present Perfect Continuous
have/has been+v-ing (e.g., she has been working here since April; I’ve been waiting since 5 o’clock). Used with for and since for action verbs, actions that have just finished, actions that started in the past and continue in the present (recently, lately, for, since, all day, all morning, all week), and past actions with present results.
Modal Verbs
Might/May
Used for something you think is possible (50%).
Can’t
Used for something you are sure is impossible.
Must
Used for something you are sure will happen.
Can/Could
Used for present or past ability or possibility. can = ability, possibility, and permission.
Be Able To
+ infinitive. Used for future, present perfect, infinitive, gerund, present, and past. Used for ability and possibility in the past. Used in present and past for more formal situations (e.g., she has been able to swim since he was.. I’d like to be able to ski. I love being able to stay.. You’ll be able to practise.. I’m able to accept. They weren’t able to.).
Have To
Used for obligation or something necessary to do. Used in all verb forms. Used for general rules or laws.
Must
Used for obligation or something that must be done in the present or future. Used for specific personal obligations.
Don’t Have To
Used when it is not necessary to do something specific.
Mustn’t
Used for prohibition. Can’t is not always a prohibition.
Should/Ought To/Shouldn’t/Oughtn’t To
Used for recommendations or opinions.
Indirect Speech
Reporting what someone else said (e.g., I like..-she said she liked..; I’m leaving tomorrow-He was leaving the next day. I’ll love you..-He would love me; I passed-She had passed; I’ve forgotten my..-He had forgotten his..; I can’t come-She couldn’t come; I may be late-He might be late; I must go-She had to go. Are you married?-She asked him if he was married; Did she phone?-He asked me if she had phoned; What’s your name?-I asked him what his name is; Where do you live?-They asked me where I lived)
Have Something Done
Used when you pay someone to do something for you (e.g., She’s having my hair cut; we don’t need to have the house painted; I want to have my legs waxed)
Passive Voice
be+past participle. Used when the focus is on the action rather than the doer (e.g., The car is being repaired today. The film was directed by.. (were closed, have been written, is being built, should be allowed, is visited every year, was being filmed..))
Prepositions After Verbs and Adjectives
Waited for, laughed at, worried about, interested in, good at spending, believes in taking, tired of, ready for, looking forward to, apologizing for, proud of, sweets with, rely on, talking about, responsible for, arguing about, argue with, agree with, applied for, arrived at, believe in, belong to, choose between, depend on, dream about, pay for, prefer to, shared with, smiled at, spending on, succeed in, waiting for, close to, different from, disappointed with, excited about, famous for, fed up with, fond of, scared of, good/bad at, good for, keen on, kind to, married to, pleased with, rude to, sorry about, tired of.
Phrasal Verbs
get up (wake up), went away (leave), coming back (return), set off (depart, leave), split up=break up, looked up (search), fill in, switch off, look after (take care of), looking for, asked for, get on with (get along with), look out for (watch out for), be on (be happening, finish), grow up, move in, check out, close down, give away (donate), give up, open up, pay back, pick up, put away, put on, put up (accommodate), send back, take out (remove), throw away, try on, turn up (appear), ask for, fall out with (fall in love with), fit in with, get away from, move back to
Articles
A/AN
Used for the first mention of something or someone (e.g., an old man), when describing something or someone (e.g., a nice house), exclamations with What..! (e.g., What an awful day!), and expressions of frequency (e.g., three times a week).
THE
Used when talking about something you have just mentioned (e.g., a man with a dog. The dog was..), to make it clear what you are referring to (e.g., the children), when there is only one (e.g., the moon, the earth), places in town (e.g., the cinema), and superlatives (e.g., the best)
No Article
Used when talking in general with plural and uncountable nouns (e.g., flowers), after at/to/from (e.g., at home), before meals, days, and months, and before next/last+day, week, etc.
Writing Topics
1. Informal email to a friend (life update, new job), email to a friend congratulating them on their vacation, CV; 2. Describing a room, describing a flat, providing additional information in a description, describing a photo, describing a building; 3. Erasmus in Murcia, living in Totana, my town; 4. Article about fitness, articles, transportation, opinion about an exam; 5. Movie review, formal email for a course, complaint letter; 6. Journey description, important story, LinkedIn profile, restaurant review; 7. Formal complaint about bad service at a restaurant, TV program for professionals, personal introduction, who, where, when questions; 8. Describing a person and asking for information about another person, describing a person and giving information about another person.
Speaking Topics
1. The Internet and technology, email, online studying, TV, mobile phones, social media; 2. Eating in restaurants and at home, fast food, life in the past and present, living in the city and countryside; 3. Studying and working, studying abroad, traveling abroad and in Spain; 4. Means of communication, means of transport, having children; 5. Memory, recycling, DIY, exams; 6. Beauty treatments, sports and the gym, living alone vs. with company, live concerts.
Vocabulary and Ideas for Speaking Topics
The Internet and Technology
The 21st century is characterized by the inclusion of Information Technology (IT) in our lives. The Internet has advantages and disadvantages. Advantages include access to information, communication, and convenience. Disadvantages include potential dangers, false information, and addiction. It’s important to use the Internet and technology responsibly.
Email is a convenient way to communicate quickly and cheaply. Advantages include ease of use, immediate information, and accessibility. Disadvantages include the need for an internet connection, spam, and potential viruses. It’s important to use email appropriately and be aware of potential risks.
Online Studying
Online studying offers flexibility and convenience. Advantages include the ability to study at your own pace, from anywhere, and often while working. Disadvantages include the need for self-discipline, limited interaction with teachers and classmates, and potential technical issues. It’s important to consider your learning style and preferences before choosing online study.
TV
TV can be a source of entertainment and information. Advantages include access to news, documentaries, and various programs. Disadvantages include potential for addiction, exposure to negative content, and reduced time for other activities. It’s important to watch TV in moderation and choose programs wisely.
Mobile Phones
Smartphones offer various features and connectivity. Advantages include communication, access to information, and convenience. Disadvantages include potential dangers for children, addiction, and health concerns due to electromagnetic waves. It’s important to use smartphones responsibly and be aware of potential risks.
Social Media
Social media platforms allow for connection and sharing. Advantages include communication, staying updated, and sharing experiences. Disadvantages include potential dangers such as identity theft, sexting, and grooming. It’s important to use social media cautiously and be aware of potential risks.
Eating in Restaurants vs. at Home
Eating in restaurants offers convenience and variety. Advantages include no need to cook or clean, diverse cuisines, and social experiences. Disadvantages include higher costs and potentially less healthy options. Eating at home allows for control over ingredients and cost. Advantages include healthier choices, cost savings, and personalization. Disadvantages include time and effort required for shopping, cooking, and cleaning. The choice depends on individual preferences and circumstances.
Fast Food
Fast food is convenient and often affordable. Advantages include quick service, variety, and taste. Disadvantages include unhealthy ingredients, high calorie content, and potential health risks. It’s important to consume fast food in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Life in the Past vs. Present
Life in the past was different in terms of technology, social norms, and opportunities. Advantages of the past may include stronger family ties, simpler lifestyles, and less materialism. Disadvantages may include limited resources, lack of technology, and social restrictions. The present offers advancements in technology, healthcare, and opportunities. Advantages may include convenience, access to information, and greater freedom. Disadvantages may include fast-paced lifestyles, environmental concerns, and social isolation. It’s important to appreciate the progress made while acknowledging the values of the past.
Living in the City vs. Countryside
Living in the city offers convenience and opportunities. Advantages include access to amenities, public transportation, and diverse experiences. Disadvantages include noise, pollution, and crowds. Living in the countryside offers peace and nature. Advantages include fresh air, tranquility, and community spirit. Disadvantages include limited amenities, transportation challenges, and fewer job opportunities. The choice depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Studying and Working
Studying and working simultaneously can be challenging but rewarding. Advantages include financial independence, work experience, and time management skills. Disadvantages include reduced leisure time, stress, and potential academic challenges. It’s important to be organized, disciplined, and prioritize well-being.
Studying Abroad
Studying abroad offers cultural immersion and personal growth. Advantages include language learning, exposure to new cultures, and increased independence. Disadvantages include costs, distance from family and friends, and potential cultural adjustments. It’s important to research thoroughly, be open-minded, and embrace the experience.
Traveling in Spain vs. Abroad
Traveling abroad offers diverse experiences and cultural exploration. Advantages include discovering new places, cultures, languages, and people. Disadvantages include language barriers, currency exchange, and potential cultural differences. Traveling within Spain offers familiarity and convenience. Advantages include shared language, similar cuisine, and diverse landscapes. Disadvantages include potential for repetitive experiences and limited exposure to different cultures. The choice depends on individual travel goals and preferences.
Means of Communication
Modern media offers various channels for information and communication. Advantages include real-time updates, accessibility, and diverse perspectives. Disadvantages include potential bias, censorship, and information overload. It’s important to critically evaluate information from different sources and form independent opinions.
Means of Transport
Different means of transport offer varying levels of convenience, speed, and cost. Advantages of private transport include flexibility and comfort. Disadvantages include environmental impact, traffic congestion, and costs. Public transport offers affordability and reduced environmental impact. Disadvantages include limited schedules and potential crowding. The choice depends on individual needs and priorities.
Having Children
Having children is a significant life decision with both joys and challenges. Advantages include unconditional love, family bonds, and personal fulfillment. Disadvantages include responsibility, financial costs, and lifestyle adjustments. The decision to have children is personal and should be based on individual circumstances and values.
Describing a Room/Flat
When describing a room or flat, focus on key features such as size, layout, furniture, and decor. Use descriptive language to create a vivid image for the reader or listener. Include details about the atmosphere, lighting, and any unique characteristics.
Describing a Person
When describing a person, consider their physical appearance, personality traits, interests, and skills. Use specific examples and anecdotes to illustrate their qualities. Be respectful and avoid stereotypes or generalizations.
Giving Directions
When giving directions, be clear and concise. Use landmarks, street names, and directional terms (left, right, straight ahead) to guide the person. Consider providing alternative routes or transportation options.
Writing Emails
When writing emails, consider the purpose and audience. Use a professional tone for formal emails and a more casual tone for informal emails. Proofread carefully before sending.