The document discusses the differences between the present simple and present continuous tenses in English. The present simple is used for regular or repeated actions, facts that are always true, states of being, and instructions. The present continuous is used for actions that are happening now, temporary situations, and planned future arrangements. Some verbs have different meanings depending on whether they are in the simple or continuous form.

1. Present Simple and Present Continuous
Do you know the difference between them?

2. Present Simple
• A regular repeated activity. We often use it with adverbs or
adverbial phrases of frequency: sometimes, never,
occasionally, every day, on Saturdays, once a week, etc.
He attends the board meeting
every Monday.
I catch the 8’clock train every
Monday.

3. • Something that is generally true; a statement of fact.
Water boils at 100 degrees centrigrade.
• With stative verbs, that is, verbs that describe feelings,
thoughts and states rather than activities.
“I don’t understand”.

4. • Instructions. (We can use the imperative or the present
simple for instructions.)
You mix the soup with some cream.
• In clauses of time and condition, referring to the future. It
is used after: when, if, unless, before, after, as soon as, etc.
Buy some milk when you come home.

5. Present Continuous
• For an activity in progress at the moment.
She’s doing her homework.
• An activity that is taking place in the present time period
and will continue for a limited time. It is often used with
these days, this week, today, this month, etc.
We are painting the house this week.

6. • A situation that is in the process of changing.
The number of cars on the road is
increasing rapidly each year.
• A future arrangement.
Are you going to the party on
Saturday?

7. Careful!
Some verbs have one meaning in the simple form, but a different
meaning in the continuous form.
I have a bike. = I own a bike.( in general)
We are having a great time.
It’s a great day!
(at the moment)