Preterite vs imperfect: how to choose
Use the preterite for completed events and the imperfect for background, habits and actions already in progress.
Ayer compré un libro.
Cuando era niño, leía mucho.
Cuando era niño, leía mucho.
Completed event or scene/background? That question solves many tense choices.
Practise Spanish contrasts in full sentences.
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Yo ___ cuando sonó el teléfono.