Present Simple vs. Continuous

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Jul 21, 2009

#0100:

Present Simple vs. Continuous Video Lesson

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This English grammar video shows the fundamental differences between two very important and commonly used grammatical verb tenses. Basically, the Present Tense Simple is used to describe actions that are repeated or that are facts. If you want to describe a general situation, use the simple form. The Present Tense Continuous (also called Present Tense Progressive) is used to describe unfinished actions or situations that are happening right now.

When to use Present Tense Simple

If we describe actions which are repeated
If we describe habits, etc.
- I go to school every day.
- I go to the store every Saturday.
- I learn English.
If we describe facts.
- Water boils at 100° C.
- I like flowers.

When to use Present Tense Continuous

If we describe situations which are happening right now, at the moment of speaking.
- I am playing football at the moment.
- They are singing a song right now.
To describe actions which are happening in the future
If we want to describe our current life
- What are you doing in your life now?
- I am going to school.