Present continuous tense
Usage
Continuous action: The present continuous tense is used to describe an action that is currently in progress or happening at the moment of speaking.
I am currently working on a project.
He is writing at the moment.
Temporary actions: The present continuous tense is often used to describe temporary or ongoing actions or situations:
I am learning French this semester.
Plans and arrangements: The present continuous tense can also be used to describe future plans or arrangements that have already been made:
I am meeting my friend for lunch tomorrow.
Emphasis: The present continuous tense can be used to emphasize the ongoing nature of an action:
He is always complaining about his job.
Form
The present continuous tense is formed using the present tense of the verb to be (am, is, are) followed by the present participle (-ing form) of the main verb.
Signal words
Signal words such as now, currently, at the moment, at this moment, right now, this week/month/year, etc. are often used with the present continuous tense to give context and indicate the ongoing nature of the action.
Negation and question forms
To form negative sentences in the present continuous tense, the word not is placed between am/is/are and the present participle
I am not studying right now.”
To form questions in the present continuous tense, the auxiliary verb am/is/are is moved before the subject:
Are you studying for your exam?
Is your son playing outside?