Present Continuous vs Present Simple

Uses

Present Continuous

Something that is happening now:

Be quiet. I am studying.

Temporary states and actions:

I am staying in the province this week. 

States that are changing or developing:

Prices are rising very fast these days. 

Something that we plan to do in the immediate future. 

My mom is seeing the doctor tomorrow at 2:30 P.M.

To describe actions that are repeated and are annoying. (with always, constantly, …)

A few students are always making noises during my class. 

Present Simple

Repeated actions or habits

I always spend thirty minutes watch lessons on YouTube. 

Permanent states

I lives in Phnom Penh.

General truths or natural laws 

The sun rises in the east.

Programs or Timetables (buses, train, cinemas, …)

The plan takes off in ten minutes.

Telling a story.

The plan takes off in ten minutes.

Stative verbs/Non-action verbs: 

believe, know, understand, like, love, ..

Examples

Present Continuous

I am studying English now.

We are staying in a hotel.

Don’t talk too loud. I am talking on the phone. 

My English is improving these days.

She is not staying with us now.

What are you doing right now?

Present Simple

She comes to school on time every day. 

We take a few extra classes in the evening. 

Water boils at 100 ºC. 

I have my English class on Mondays and Wednesdays. 

She likes ice-cream.

One of my teachers does not like to drink Coca Cola.