Present Continuous Tense

The present continuous tense is used:

1. To talk about continuous activities:

•     At the time of speaking: I am reading this book now.
•     Around now, in a more general sense: I am learning English this year.

2. To talk about planned future activities or intentions:

    John and Jane are coming to lunch tomorrow. They called to confirm.

    I am spending my holidays in Paris. I have already booked my flight.

Simple Present Tense

The present simple tense is used:

1. To talk about regular activities:

• John plays football once a week.
• They start work at 8:00am every morning.
• Sara goes to visit her grandpa on Sundays.

2. To talk about tastes:

• John likes Chinese food.
• Peter doesn't like classical music.
• Most children love candy.

3. To talk about facts:

• The sun sets in the west.
• In the United States, the weather is cold in winter.
• Poets write poems.