Present Forms

We can use the present simple to talk about habits (things that we do regularly), facts (things that are always true) or states (facts that are true for a long time).

We can use the present continuous to talk about an activity that’s happening now, (or around now) or to talk about planned future arrangements.

Present Simple

Habits:
We give Helen the rent every month.
She sends the cheque to the landlord.

Facts:
The sun rises in the east.
Brasilia is the capital of Brazil.

States:
They live in a flat together.
Alice doesn’t work in a hospital.

Present Simple Forms

I/You/We/They He/She/It

go to the office by bike. likes swimming.

Present Continuous

Happening now:
I’m just putting the kettle on.
They’re watching TV.

Planned future arrangements:
Helen’s studying later tonight.
I’m playing football with my friends on Saturday.

Present continuous form:

I
You/We/They
He/She/It

Verb to be +
am
are
is

verb + ing
waiting for you
studying
chatting

Note: In spoken English we usually shorten “I am” to “I’m” , “You are” to “You’re” etc.

Philip your Online English Conversation Class Teacher will be happy to help you with these tenses.  Also, you might like to visit this BBC Link that explain more about using the continuous tense.