1) Use
- We use the present continuous for actions happening at the moment of speaking.
Example:
I am trying to do my homework.
- We also use the present continuous for actions happening around the time of speaking.
Example:
John is learning Italian.
- We often use 'now', 'right now' or 'at the moment' to talk about the present continuous.
Examples:
Mary is reading a book at the moment.
They are playing basketball now.
2) How to form the present continuous
We form the present continuous with am / are / is + the '-ing' form of the verb.
Am / Are / Is + '-ing' form of the verb
Example:
Steve is watching TV.
| '-ing' forms of some verbs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Infinitive | '-ing' form of the verb | |
| To work | Working | |
| To read | Reading | |
| To watch | Watching | |
| To make | Making | |
3) How to form a negative sentence in the present continuous
We add 'not' after am / are / is to form a negative sentence in the present continuous.
Am / Are / Is + not + '-ing' form of the verb
Examples:
(+) Steve is watching TV.
(-) Steve is not watching TV.
(+) You are playing the guitar.
(-) You are not playing the guitar.
4) How to form a question in the present continuous
We move am / are / is to the beginning of the sentence to form a question in the present continuous.
Am / Are / Is + Subject + '-ing' form of the verb
Examples:
(+) Steve is watching TV.
(?) Is Steve watching TV?
Yes, he is / No, he is not.
(+) You are playing the guitar.
(?) Are you playing the guitar?
Yes, I am / No, I am not.