I am, I don't, etc.

This lesson explains how to form simple present affirmative, negative and question sentences with the subject I. It contrasts the verb be (I am) with other verbs that use the auxiliary do (I don't, Do I?). You will learn when to use "am" vs "do/does", how to form negatives and questions, and common contractions.

• Use I am + adjective/noun/location: I am the manager. I am at the office.
• Use do + not (don't) to negate actions: I don't work on Sundays.
• Use auxiliary do to form questions with verbs other than be: Do I need to sign this?
• Contractions: I'm = I am; I don't = I do not

Remember when to use 'am' and when to use 'do/does' as auxiliary:

• Use 'am/is/are' as the main verb for states, identity and location: I am the manager.
• Do NOT use 'do' with the verb be: Incorrect → I don't a manager.
• Use 'do' / 'does' + base verb to form negatives and questions for action verbs: I don't work. Do you work?
• Contract common forms for natural speech: I'm, I'm not, I don't

Think: 'be' is a main verb; 'do' is an auxiliary for other verbs.

Avoid these universal errors learners often make:

• Using 'do' with the verb be: Incorrect → I don't a manager.
• Wrong auxiliary in questions: Incorrect word order like 'Do I am...?'
• Third-person agreement errors with he/she/it (use doesn't not don't): Incorrect → She don't attend.
• Using double negatives: Incorrect → I don't know nothing.
• Wrong contraction placement or using informal contractions in formal writing

Check the main verb: if it's be, use am/is/are; otherwise use do/does for questions and negatives.