Was/Were vs Did Part 1 — Basic Distinction

One of the first challenges in past simple is knowing when to use was/were and when to use did. The rule is straightforward: use "was" or "were" only with the verb be (for states, descriptions, and locations). Use "did" with all other verbs (for actions). "She was happy" describes a state — use "was." "She played tennis" describes an action — use "did" for questions and negatives: "Did she play tennis?" Never mix them: "Did she was happy?" is always wrong.

In negative sentences, this distinction is equally important: "He wasn't at home" (verb "be" — use "wasn't") vs "He didn't go home" (verb "go" — use "didn't"). In questions: "Were they tired?" (verb "be") vs "Did they finish?" (verb "finish"). This difference applies to every sentence you make in past simple. At A2 level, many learners confuse these two patterns, especially with adjectives: "Was she angry?" is correct because "angry" describes a state. Understanding this core distinction between states and actions is the key to using past simple accurately in both speaking and writing.