Present Continuous

USE 1:   Now                                                                                        

Use the Present Continuous with Continuous Verbs to express the idea that something is happening now, at this very moment. It can also be used to show that something is not happening now.

EXAMPLES:

You are learning English now.

You are not swimming now.

What are you doing?

Why aren't you doing your homework?

USE 2:  Longer Actions in Progress Now   

In English, now can mean "this second," "today," "this month," "this year," "this century" and so on. Sometimes we use the Present Continuous to say that we are in the process of doing a longer action which is in progress; however, we might not be doing it at this exact second.

EXAMPLES: (All of these sentences can be said while eating dinner in a restaurant.)

I am studying to become a doctor.

I am not reading any books right now.

Are you working on any special projects at work?

Aren't you teaching at the University now?

USE 3:   Near Future

Sometimes, speakers use the Present Continuous to speak about PERSONAL PLANS in the near future.

EXAMPLES:

I am meeting some friends after work.

Is he visiting his parents next weekend?

USE 4:   Repetition and Irritation with "Always"   

The Present Continuous with words such as "always" or "constantly" expresses the idea that something irritating or shocking often happens. Notice that the meaning is like Simple Present but with negative emotion. Remember to put the words "always" or "constantly" between "be" and "verb+ing."

EXAMPLES:

She is always coming to class late.

He is constantly talking. I wish he would shut up.

IMPORTANT

Non-Continuous Verbs/ Mixed Verbs

It is important to remember that Non-Continuous Verbs cannot be used in any "continuous" tenses. Also, certain "non-continuous" meanings for Mixed Verbs cannot be used in "continuous" tenses. To express the idea of "happening now", you must use Simple Present USE 3.

EXAMPLES:

She is loving chocolate. Not Correct

She loves chocolate. Correct