Lorthew
Help language
All topics
A1

Present continuous

What is happening right now, built from be plus an -ing verb.

Practise this Take an exam

Choose a focus

or practise the whole topic above
Building be + -ing The two parts of the present continuous: the right form of be and an -ing verb. 2 rulesHabits and actions now Choosing simple present for habits and continuous forms for actions in progress. 1 rule

Try it

A1 and below · grammar and sentence difficulty
1.

Consolidation · build on the basics

Complete the gap using the correct form of “cutting”. You may need more than one word. Do not write the whole sentence.

He blank a carrot now.

He a carrot now.

2.

Consolidation · build on the basics

Complete the gap using the correct form of “buying”. You may need more than one word. Do not write the whole sentence.

He blank some bread now.

He some bread now.

Rules in this topic

3
  • A1

    Missing be verb in continuous

    Use am, is, or are before an -ing verb (e.g., I am playing, not I playing).

  • A2

    Continuous tenses: be + V-ing

    A continuous tense needs a 'be' verb (matching its own tense) followed by an '-ing' verb: is working, not is work — and just as much, were swimming, not were swim.

  • A2

    Continuous vs. simple present for habits

    Habitual actions with every day/morning/week are usually simple present. Continuous is correct too for emphasis or a temporary pattern (I'm always drinking coffee lately).