Simple Past Tense vs. Present Perfect What’s the difference?

Look at this chart and think about this question: Q: “Have you ever been to the zoo?” A: “Yes, I have been there 3 times.”

Whenever we have a question “Have you ever... ?” it means “Have you ever (in your lifetime)?”

Look at some more examples...

Example 1 I went to the Water Park last Sunday. I have gone to the Water Park 5 times this year.

Example 2 I watched a DVD yesterday. I have watched 3 DVDs this month.

Example 3 She visited her grandparents' house last Saturday. She has visited her grandparents' house every month this year.

Example 4 We took a test 2 weeks ago. We have taken many tests this year.

Example 5 He did his homework last night. He has done his homework every night.

Example 6 She read the newest Harry Potter book last month. She has read all of the Harry Potter books.

Remember: Simple past tense is for something that happened 1 time. Present perfect is for a period of time starting in the past and continuing until now.