English Grammar: Present Simple vs Present Continuous

Study Notes

The present simple is formed using the base form of the verb (e.g., go, make, have)
The verb remains the same for all subjects, except for the third person singular (he/she/it) which adds -s or -es
Examples:
- I/you/we/they go
- he/she/it goes

The present continuous is formed using the present tense of the verb "to be" (am, is, are) and the -ing form of the main verb
Examples:
- I am going
- you are making
- he/she/it is having
- we/they are doing

Used to describe:
- Habits and routines (e.g., I get up at 7am every day)
- General truths (e.g., The sun rises in the east)
- Fixed schedules (e.g., The train leaves at 5pm)
- Permanent situations (e.g., I live in London)
Can also be used to express:
- Universal truths (e.g., Water boils at 100°C)
- Scientific facts (e.g., The Earth orbits the Sun)

Used to describe:
- Temporary or changing situations (e.g., I am studying for my exam)
- Actions happening at the moment of speaking (e.g., I am writing an email)
- Trends or changes (e.g., The population is increasing)
- Future plans or arrangements (e.g., I am meeting my friends at 7pm)
Can also be used to express:
- Annoyance or irritation (e.g., He is always leaving his dirty socks on the floor)
- Temporary or changing emotions (e.g., I am feeling anxious about the exam)

The present simple is used for fixed, permanent, or habitual actions, while the present continuous is used for temporary, changing, or ongoing actions.
The present simple is often used for general truths, while the present continuous is used for more specific, temporary situations.