Reporting Universal Facts
When reporting general truths, scientific facts, or widely known information, we keep the present tense in both the reporting verb and the reported statement. This maintains the eternal truth of the statement: She says the Earth revolves around the Sun.
Scientific and Educational Contexts
This structure is particularly common in academic and educational settings when sharing established knowledge: The teacher explains that plants need sunlight to grow. The textbook states that water freezes at 0°C.
Cultural and Geographic Facts
Use this form to report established cultural or geographic information: The guide tells us that the Nile is the longest river. He mentions that Spanish is the official language of Mexico.
Examples
The professor says that diamonds are the hardest natural substance.Reports a scientific fact that remains true regardless of when it's reported
My colleague mentions that Tokyo is the capital of Japan.Reports a geographic fact that doesn't change with time
The article states that the human body contains 206 bones.Reports a biological fact using present tense in both clauses
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Incorrect: He says that the sun was rising in the east.
✅ Correct: He says that the sun rises in the east.
Explanation: For universal truths, use simple present, not past tense
❌ Incorrect: The book is saying that metals are conducting electricity.
✅ Correct: The book says that metals conduct electricity.
Explanation: Use simple present, not present continuous, for scientific facts
Tips for Success
- Always use simple present tense for universal truths and scientific facts
- If the fact is still true today, keep both verbs in present tense
- Think about whether the information is time-dependent or a permanent truth
- Use this structure for geographical, scientific, and cultural constants
Learning Path Notes
Key Concepts in This Series:
- Present tense reporting verbs
- No backshift for universal truths
- Factual reporting contexts