Special Agent Entrance Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of the Past Simple tense?

1. I am studying

2. I will go to the park

3. I played soccer yesterday

4. I am going to the market

The correct answer is: I played soccer yesterday

The Past Simple tense is used to describe actions that have been completed at a specific point in the past. In this case, the phrase "I played soccer yesterday" utilizes the Past Simple tense because it indicates a completed action (playing soccer) that took place at a defined moment in time (yesterday). The verb "played" is the past form of "play," which further confirms that it reflects an action done in the past. The other phrases demonstrate different tenses: the first option reflects the Present Continuous tense, indicating an ongoing action; the second option indicates the Future Simple tense, signifying an action that will happen later; and the last option also represents the Present Continuous tense, suggesting an action that is currently in progress. Thus, option C appropriately exemplifies the Past Simple tense usage.