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Present Tenses
Understand the difference between Present Simple and Present Continuous.
Present Simple vs. Present Continuous
Learn when to use each tense with clear examples.
Present Simple vs. Present Continuous
Understanding when to use Present Simple and Present Continuous is key for talking about the present.
| Tense | Use | Signal Words |
|---|---|---|
| Present Simple | Habits, routines, facts | always, usually, every day, never |
| Present Continuous | Actions happening now or around now | now, at the moment, Look!, Listen! |
Present Simple Examples
- I work in an office every day. (Habit)
- The sun rises in the east. (Fact)
- She doesn't eat meat. (Fact)
Present Continuous Examples
- I am reading a book right now.
- She is studying for her exams this week.
- They are not watching TV.
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Tense Timeline
This visual helps differentiate between actions happening regularly and actions happening now.

Tense Practice
Choose the correct tense for each sentence.
1
Look! The cat ___ on the sofa.
2
I usually coffee in the morning.
3
What are you right now?
4
He ___ to the gym three times a week.