The present perfect, like the other perfect tenses (future and past perfects), conveys the idea that one thing happens before another time or event. In other words, perfect tenses are always used within a context and not in isolation.

To form the present perfect, use a form of have + past participle:

–They've already dried their clothes.

–I've just finished washing my clothes.

–She's borrowed some detergent.

(In the above, the actions all took place before now. The exact time is unimportant.)

Examples of Present Perfect

• I've finished using the dryer, and there's still some time left if you want to dry your clothes.
• I've been to Atlanta, Georgia, and now I'm on my way to your nation's capital.