The Present Simple and Continuous
When we talk about the present in English, we have to ask - is this something that happens all the time, or is it happening right now? This is the difference between the Present Simple and the Present Continuous.
1. The Present Simple: Always or usually true
We use the Present Simple to describe things that are usually or always true, or true for a long time. For example
- "I live in a small apartment." (This isn't changing tomorrow).
- "The sun rises in the east."
- "It often rains in April"
Common State Verbs: Believe, want, know, remember, understand, want, like, hate, own, belong.
Incorrect: "I am knowing the answer."
Correct: "I know the answer."
Examples
The Drummer
"Alex is a drummer. He practices every day because he wants to be the best. Right now, he is banging his drum. He is making a noise. Everyone wants him to stop.
The Baker
"I bake my own bread every weekend. I love the smell of fresh dough. Today is Sunday, so I am mixing flour and water in a large bowl. My cat is watching me from the kitchen table."
Summary
To choose the correct tense, ask yourself: "Does this always or often happen or is only it happening right now?"
- If it is a habit, a fact, or a state verb: Use the Present Simple.
- If it is an action only happening now: Use the Present Continuous.
When using the present simple we often use "frequency adverbs" like always, usually, often, sometimes, and never. These words tell us how often something happens. For examples:
"I often drink coffee"
"We usually meet at eight o'clock"
"She never arrives on time."
2. The Present Continuous:
The Present Continuous (am/is/are + -ing) is used for actions happening or true right now, but are not always true.
Right Now: "Something is coming."
Temporary: "I am staying at a hotel this week while my house is being painted."
Changing: "The weather is getting colder."
Example: "Look at Mark! He is running for the bus. He is carrying a heavy bag and is looking at his watch."
Stative verbs
These are verbs that describe feelings, thoughts, or possession rather than physical actions. These verbs are almost never used in the continuous form, even if the feeling is happening right now.
You should read the grammar in the elementary section if this seems too difficult.
