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How to use "Do" and "Does" in everyday English

Learning to use "do" and "does" correctly in the present tense is a simple yet powerful step in improving your English.
These words act as auxiliary verbs and are essential for forming questions, negatives, and sometimes even emphasizing actions.



When to use "Do"
The verb "do" is used with plural subjects (we, they) as well as the singular pronouns I and you.
It’s your go-to choice for most subjects except third-person singular.
- Examples:
  - Do you enjoy watching movies?
  - Do they visit their grandparents often?
  - I do my chores every Saturday morning.

When to use "Does"
Use "does" when the subject is singular and in the third person (he, she, it).
This is the only context where "does" is appropriate in the present tense.
- Examples:
  - Does she love painting?
  - Does it snow in winter where you live?
  - He does his homework on time every day.

Forming questions with Do/Does
In English, "do" and "does" help form questions by moving to the front of the sentence, right before the subject.
- Examples:
  - Do you know how to cook?
  - Does he work at the hospital?

Making negative sentences
To form negative sentences, simply add "not" after "do" or "does."
- Examples:
  - I do not (don’t) like spicy food.
  - She does not (doesn’t) watch television.
  - They do not play soccer on weekends.

Emphasizing actions
Sometimes, "do" and "does" are used to add emphasis, especially in positive sentences.
- Examples:
  - I do appreciate your help!
  - She does understand the instructions, even if they’re difficult.

Practice tips
To master "do" and "does," practice making sentences about your daily life.
For example:
- Do I need to bring my notebook to class?
- Does your dog like to go for walks?

Also, try turning those questions into negatives and affirmatives:
- No, I do not need my notebook today.
- Yes, my dog does enjoy long walks.

A quick challenge
Here’s a fun exercise: Think of five things you do daily.
Turn them into questions, positive sentences, and negatives using "do" or "does."
- Do you drink coffee every morning?
- Yes, I do drink coffee every morning.
- No, I do not drink coffee in the evening.

Learning "do" and "does" is like unlocking a door to clearer and more confident English communication.
Start practicing today, and you’ll notice how much more natural your conversations will become!

Use our online Quizzes and learn how to construct sentences.
English Puzzle:

Select "Do - Does " in the grammar dropdown

https://fluencyonlife.com/english-fill-in-gaps-quizzes/

Practice speaking by listening and engaging in Wordly topics.
World Topics In English:

https://fluencyonlife.com/english-world-topics-with-questions-and-audio/