Some simple past verbs are regular and there are some spelling rules for the regular verbs.
1. We usually add -ed at the end of the verb.
worked moved listened
2. When the verbs end in 'e', add -d at the end of the verb.
arrived loved changed
3. When the verb has one syllable and ends in one wovel and one consonant, double the consonant.
stopped robbed planned
Note: What is a vowel and a consonant?
vowels = a e i o u
consonants are all other letters = b c d f g, etc.
4. When verbs end in a consonant + -y, drop the-y and add -ied at the end of the verb.
studied cried carried
Some past simple verbs are irregular. There are no spelling rules for these verbs.
go – went have – had speak - spoke
Click here to try an exercise about spelling rules for regular past verbs.