When do I use I am doing?
Which is the correct sentence in each pair?
a) I buy a computer because I need one.
b) I am buying a computer because I need one.
a) I am getting a new camera for my birthday.
b) I get a new camera for my birthday.
We use the present continuous for unfinished actions:
- to describe what is happening now.
I am doing a grammar exercise at this moment. - with today, this week, etc…
He isn’t working this week because he wants to paint his room. - to describe what is happening around this time.
We’re in London. We’re having a great time. - to talk about definite future plans.
I am pleased you are going to Rome next week.
In contrast, here are some examples of the use of the present simple:
- I do my homework every evening (regular habit)
- I work in an office (permanent state)
- We go to the doctor when we are ill (general truths)
We don’t usually use the continuous form of hope, know, like, love, need, want.
When do I use I will? – KET
Which is the correct sentence in each pair?
a) I see you next week.
b) I’ll see you next week.
a) I’d love to go with you, but I can’t next week.
b) I’ll love to go with you, but I can’t next week.
We use will for things we decide now about the future:
- to make promises.
I’ll be ready at two o’clock. (not I’m ready at two o’clock) - to make offers
If you like, I’ll meet you at the station. (not I meet you at the train station). - after think and hope, and to make predictions.
I think you’ll like my town. (not I think you like my town).
It’ll be nice to see you again. (not It is nice to see you again).
We use shall I/we only to offer:
Shall I close the window? (not Will I close the window?).
We use going to for things we have already decided:
I’m going to stay at home this evening and write some emails. (not I will stay at home).
We use would like/love/prefer when we say what we want to do:
I’d like to go to the cinema tomorrow. (not I will like to go).