A little help with preterite and imperfect please?

Question

So in my Spanish class we are learning about preterite and imperfect words in past tense. I've been having trouble figuring out the difference between them.

So I know that imperfect is used for describing the state of a person/thing as well as the situation/person/thing and setting up the scene of what's being talked about. I also know that preterite is used for actions that are done and dusted, a one-time isolated event. But are there any other ways I can use to distinguish between them? Because I'm still having trouble knowing when to use which.

Any tips? Thanks. -Lauren

Answer 1

Here is a link to SD's teaching on "preterit vs. imperfect."

Link to preterit vs. imperfect

This subject is so complicated that is takes two lessons in my textbook to deal with it. I teach Spanish at the university level. - Daniela2041, Apr 21, 2016

OK cool! I'll be sure to check that out! Thanks! - MujerDelGato, Apr 21, 2016

Answer 2

The imperfect is something that was ongoing for some time during the past.

As you stated the preterite is.

Example, I worked at the store for 2 years. - 00cc0117, Apr 21, 2016

OK thanks! It makes more sense now! - MujerDelGato, Apr 21, 2016