Lesson 10 of 13 · Intermediate · B1

Lifestyle changes

Compare past routines and situations with how you live now.

1. Grammar: Used to and the present simple

Use used to + base verb for a past habit or state that is no longer true. Use didn’t use to and Did you use to …? in negatives and questions. Use the present simple to contrast a current routine. Used to do is different from be used to doing, which means being familiar with something.

I used to + verb, but now I + verb. → I used to drive, but now I walk.
I didn’t use to + verb. → I didn’t use to cook.
Did you use to + verb? → Did you use to live nearby?
I used to be + adjective. → I used to be shy.

Model conversation

A: Did you use to cook at home?

B: No, I didn’t use to cook much. I used to order meals.

A: What changed?

B: I wanted to save money. Now I prepare most of my meals.

2. Useful words and verbs

Read each meaning and example. Make your own sentence, then try to use the word during the conversation.

develop

to build something gradually

I have developed a better routine.

replace

to use one thing instead of another

I replaced a daily taxi ride with a walk.

maintain

to keep something continuing

I try to maintain healthy habits.

spend

to use time or money

I used to spend more money on transport.

routine

a usual series of activities

My morning routine has changed.

independent

able to do things without much help

I am more independent now.

confident

feeling sure about your ability

I used to be less confident.

habit

something you do regularly

Walking is a habit I want to maintain.

3. Conversation: 15 questions

Use complete sentences and add a reason or example when it fits. Open an answer starter if you need help. You may use imagined details.

Where did you use to live when you were younger?
Answer starter
I used to live …
How did you use to travel to school or work?
Answer starter
I used to travel by …, but now …
Did you use to prepare your own meals?
Answer starter
I used to … / I didn’t use to …
What did you use to do in your free time?
Answer starter
I used to …, but now …
Did you use to spend more time outdoors?
Answer starter
I used to … more / less than I do now.
What clothes did you use to wear often?
Answer starter
I used to wear …
Did you use to be confident speaking English?
Answer starter
I used to be …, but now I am …
What subject did you use to enjoy at school?
Answer starter
I used to enjoy … because …
Did you use to save or spend your money quickly?
Answer starter
I used to …, but now …
What habit did you use to have that you have replaced?
Answer starter
I used to …, but I replaced it with …
How did your morning routine use to be different?
Answer starter
I used to … in the morning. Now I …
Did you use to depend on other people for certain tasks?
Answer starter
I used to depend on … for …
What did you not use to like that you enjoy now?
Answer starter
I didn’t use to like …, but now …
What good habit from the past do you still maintain?
Answer starter
I … now, and I also did that in the past.
What are the three biggest differences between your past and present routines?
Answer starter
I used to …, …, and … Now I …

4. Extend your answer

Choose three questions and answer again without the starters. Use at least three words from the word bank. Add a reason with “because,” an example with “for example,” or a contrast with “but.” Ask your partner one follow-up question.