Ser vs. Estar
My teacher gave us a formula that really helps:
When using estar, use x versus x, meaning you're comparing (insert whatever it is you're talking about) to itself.
When using ser, use x versus y, meaning you're comparing (insert whatever it is you're talking about) to a set of other things.
Example: Let's say we're talking about Paco. If I want to say that Paco is happy today, I would use estar, because Paco is happy compared to his usual emotional state. I would say, "Paco está feliz."
If I want to say that Paco is a happy person, I would use ser, because Paco is a happy person compared to everyone else. I would say, "Paco es feliz."
I hope this helped.
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