The Present Progressive (also called Present Continuous)

The present progressive tense is made with a present form of the verb “be” (am, is, are) + the
main verb of the sentence in its -ing form.

- The most common use of the present progressive is to talk about actions and situations
that are already going on at the time of speaking.
- Hurry up! We’re all waiting for you.
- Why are you crying? Is something wrong?

- The present progressive is often used to talk about developing or changing situations.

- The weather’s getting colder and colder.

- The country’s railroad system is gradually being improved.

- The present progressive is used to talk about temporary situations. It is not used to talk about
permanent situations, or about regular happenings or habits. For these, we generally use the
present simple tense. Compare:

- My sister’s living at home for the moment.

- You live in Guadalajara, don’t you?

- Why’s that girl standing on the table?

- The castle stands on a hill just outside the town.

- I’m seeing a lot of Monica these days.

- She sees her analyst twice a week.

- I think the cat’s going mad.

- I go to the mountains about twice a year.

- The present progressive is also used to talk about future arrangements.

- We’re probably spending next weekend at home.

- What are you doing this evening?

Model

I am (not) -ing I’m working.

He Tom is writing a letter.
She is (not) -ing She isn’t eating.
It The telephone is ringing.
We We’re having dinner.
You are (not) - ing You’re not listening to me.
They The children are doing their homework.