Use the simple present for actions that happen in general.
Use the present continuous for actions happening at the moment or current/temporary projects.
Present Simple |
Present Continuous |
| I work from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. | I’m currently working on a new project. |
| Mark studies English every day. | Mark is studying the present continuous at the moment. |
| We usually go to Europe in the summer. | Right now, we’re going to the supermarket. |
| They always talk to their boss in the morning. | They’re talking to him now. |
| Does it usually rain in the winter? | No, but it’s raining now. Take an umbrella. |
These words can help you know if the sentence needs simple present or present continuous:
Simple Present:
- Always
- Usually
- Often
- Sometimes
- Never
- Every (day/night/year/summer/winter)
Present Continuous:
- Now
- Right now
- At the moment
- Currently
- This week/month/year
- Today
Learn more English verb tenses: past, present, future, simple, perfect, continuous!
Present Simple or Present Continuous?
Congratulations - you have completed Present Simple or Present Continuous?.
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Your answers are highlighted below.
Question 1 |
Amanda and Oscar always ________ to the gym after work.
go | |
are going |
Question 2 |
My cousin never _________ me a birthday present.
is giving | |
gives |
Question 3 |
"What _____________?"
"She's baking a cake."
's she doing | |
she does |
Question 4 |
My husband ____________ tennis three times a week.
plays | |
is playing |
Question 5 |
Please turn down the music; _____________ to study.
I try | |
I'm trying |
Question 6 |
"Where _____________?"
"To my grandmother's house - see you later!"
do you go | |
are you going |
Question 7 |
He normally _________ every weekday, but today _____________ because it's a holiday.
work / he not working | |
works / he's not working | |
working / he doesn't work |
Question 8 |
How many children ____________?
are you having | |
do you have |
Question 9 |
Jane is cold because ______________ a jacket.
she's not wearing | |
she doesn't wear |
Question 10 |
My colleagues normally ____________ lunch in the office.
don't eat | |
aren't eating |
Question 11 |
How often _______________ your house?
do you clean | |
are you cleaning |
Question 12 |
Watch out! Your son _____________ into the street!
runs | |
is running |
Question 13 |
"Yes, I can talk now. ____________________."
I don't drive | |
I'm not driving |
Question 14 |
"Where's mom?"
"______________ a shower."
She's taking | |
She takes |
Question 15 |
Rita _________ how to ride a bike.
isn't knowing | |
doesn't know |
Once you are finished, click the button below. Any items you have not completed will be marked incorrect.
There are 15 questions to complete.
