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Present Simple vs Present Continuous Exercises

A2-B1 Level

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The present simple and present continuous describe different types of present situations, and choosing the right one depends on whether the action is permanent or temporary, habitual or happening right now.

Use the present simple for habits, routines, and permanent facts: "I work in an office" (my regular job), "Water boils at 100°C" (always true). Use the present continuous for actions happening right now or temporary situations: "I am working from home today" (just today, not my usual routine), "She is learning French this year" (a temporary activity). Time markers help: "always," "usually," "every day" point to present simple, while "now," "at the moment," "today" point to present continuous.

Some verbs — called stative verbs — are rarely used in the continuous form because they describe states, not actions: know, believe, want, need, belong, own, prefer. However, some stative verbs have both a state meaning and an action meaning: "I think it's good" (opinion — state) vs "I'm thinking about it" (active mental process — action).

Quick Rule

Present simple: subject + base verb (+s/es) | Present continuous: subject + am/is/are + verb-ing

1.I usually walk to work. (present simple — regular habit)
2.I am walking to work today because my car broke down. (present continuous — temporary)
3.She speaks three languages. (present simple — permanent ability)
4.She is speaking on the phone right now. (present continuous — happening now)
5.We don't eat meat. (present simple — general fact about us)