How can I better learn the verb/tenses ?
I'm actually studying Advanced Higher French at college (its not just a casual thing) and the biggest problem I have are the verbs and tenses. I tried to write them all down (Imperfect, Conditional etc) but I'm having a hard time trying to understand exactly what these tenses are for and how and when I use them. I did some research but I couldn't find any "French verbs explained" videos or anything. I have some notes and papers form college but they're very inconsistent and they just tell me how to conjugate in those verbs rather than telling me How they work
Hi I'm French,
To be sincere, in daily life we use mainly present, past composed and imperfect. Sometimes others tenses according to the language level / social class. Imperfect and past perfect etc are frequent in novels and literary works in general.
So if you are interested by French literature, these tenses will be useful. Otherwise, you will probably forget them like the majority of French people ^^.
This is my go to for all grammar related questions: https://www.lawlessfrench.com/grammar/verb-timeline/. I also think knowing when to use each tense is a matter of getting a feel for it through reading and listening a lot.
Use the Course, étudiante. MissSpells is right. While understanding the practical application of grammar and syntax is standard for formal learning, the real learning happens intutively. It is through verbal interaction that a person gets a sense, a feeling for for nuance, for what seems right or wrong. Trust your instincts, not just your grammar book. Let the language flow through you.
I recommend French Verb Drills by R. de Rousy de Sales.
You can get it in PDF here:
I couldn't find any "French verbs explained" videos or anything
You are looking for an old fashioned grammar book. Videos have their place but this isn't it. There must be an equivalent (or many) to what I use in Hungarian. This has a page of theory then exercises (with sentences in real life situations) and answers. Now you just need someone to chime in with its name.