Present simple or present continuous?

“I work” and “I’m working” can both describe the present, but they often focus on different things. The context helps you choose.

Use the present simple for routines

“I check my email every morning.”

“She works in customer support.”

With he, she, or it, most verbs add -s: “He checks the reports.” Questions use do or does: “Does she work on Saturdays?” After “does,” use the base form “work.”

Use the present continuous for activity around now

“I’m checking the report at the moment.”

“We’re preparing for an event this week.”

Form it with am/is/are + verb-ing. The activity may be happening right now or during a temporary period around now.

Notice state verbs

Verbs such as know, need, and understand are normally simple when they describe a state: “I understand the task,” rather than “I’m understanding the task.” Some verbs have different uses, so this is a useful pattern rather than a rule about every meaning.

Your turn

Complete: “She usually ___ from home, but today she ___ in the office.” Use work.

Show the answer

“She usually works from home, but today she is working in the office.” “Usually” introduces a routine; “today” contrasts it with a temporary situation.