Lie vs. Lay

LIE

To recline

Present: lie, lying

Past: lay

Past Participle (used with helping verbs such as “have”): has/have/had lain

LAY

To put or place

Present: lay, laying

Past: laid

Past Participle (used with helping verbs such as “have”): has/have/had laid something

And just in case this one confuses you too:

LIE

To tell a falsehood

Present: lie, lying

Past: lied

Past Participle (used with helping verbs such as “have”): has/have/had lied

Basically “lie” is used with people, whereas “lay” is used with objects.

NOTE: These words confuse even the most notable grammarians, so memorize the chart and practice to build confidence.