Spanish Verb Tenses Guide
Master all Spanish verb tenses with our comprehensive guide. Learn when and how to use each tense with clear explanations and examples.
Understanding Spanish Verb Moods
Indicative Mood
Used for facts, statements, and reality
When to use:
When stating facts, asking questions, or describing reality
Examples:
- • Yo hablo español
- • Ella fue a la tienda
- • Vamos a comer
Subjunctive Mood
Used for wishes, doubts, emotions, and hypothetical situations
When to use:
After expressions of emotion, doubt, desire, or uncertainty
Examples:
- • Espero que hables
- • Dudo que venga
- • Quiero que estudies
Imperative Mood
Used for commands and requests
When to use:
When giving orders, instructions, or making requests
Examples:
- • ¡Habla!
- • ¡Ven aquí!
- • ¡Estudia más!
Non-Personal Forms
Infinitive, gerund, and participle forms
When to use:
Used as nouns, adjectives, or in compound tenses
Examples:
- • hablar (to speak)
- • hablando (speaking)
- • hablado (spoken)
Time Frames
Past
Actions that happened before now
Present
Actions happening now or generally true
Future
Actions that will happen after now
Quick Start Guide
Start with these tenses:
- 1Present Indicative - For current actions and facts
- 2Preterite - For completed past actions
- 3Future - For future actions
Learning Tips:
- Practice with common verbs first (ser, estar, tener, hacer)
- Learn one tense at a time
- Use the tenses in real sentences
Ready to Practice?
Ready to practice what you've learned?
Use our interactive conjugator to practice the tenses you've studied