English exercises / A2 / Verbs & tensesRoutines and facts against what is happening right now.
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Present simple vs present continuous
The present simple is for things that are generally true: habits, facts, routines. The present continuous is for what is happening now or around now, and for temporary situations. “I work in Berlin” is my job; “I’m working in Berlin” is this month only.
Read the full explanationThe present simple
The present simple describes what is generally true: habits, routines, facts and permanent situations. The form is the base verb, with -s added in the third person singular. Negatives and questions use do or does, and the main verb drops its -s when they appear.
Read the full explanationThe present continuous
The present continuous is am, is or are plus a verb ending in -ing. It covers what is happening at this moment, what is temporary, changing situations, and personal arrangements in the future. State verbs like know, want and believe do not take it.
Read the full explanationPresent simple vs continuous: worked examples
Five from the set, with the answer filled in and the rule that decides it.
- 01
My brother always gets up at six o'clock.
- 02
Be quiet! The baby is sleeping .
Something happening at this moment → present continuous.
- 03
Look! It is raining again.
- 04
Listen! Somebody is playing the piano upstairs.
- 05
Sara usually does her homework before dinner.
usually, often and every day signal the present simple.