The Basic Formula
1. Identify the infinitive: The infinitive is the base form of the verb ending in "-er" (e.g., "parler", "manger", "chanter").
2. Remove the "-er": This leaves you with the verb stem (e.g., "parl-", "mang-", "chant-").
3. Add the appropriate ending: The endings vary depending on the pronoun:
| Pronoun | Ending | Example (parler) |
|---------|----------|--------------------|
| je | -e | je parle |
| tu | -es | tu parles |
| il/elle/on | -e | il/elle/on parle |
| nous | -ons | nous parlons |
| vous | -ez | vous parlez |
| ils/elles | -ent | ils/elles parlent |
Example: Conjugating "chanter" (to sing)
* Infinitive: chanter
* Verb stem: chant-
| Pronoun | Ending | Conjugation |
|---------|----------|--------------|
| je | -e | je chante |
| tu | -es | tu chantes |
| il/elle/on | -e | il/elle/on chante |
| nous | -ons | nous chantons |
| vous | -ez | vous chantez |
| ils/elles | -ent | ils/elles chantent |
Important Notes:
* Irregular verbs: Some -er verbs are irregular, meaning their conjugations don't follow the standard pattern. Examples include "aller" (to go), "faire" (to do/make), and "prendre" (to take).
* Accent marks: Pay attention to the use of accent marks, as they change the pronunciation of the verb.
* "tu" form: In informal French, the "tu" form is used for familiar people (friends, family). In formal contexts, the "vous" form is used.
Practice makes perfect! Try conjugating different -er verbs to get comfortable with the process.