The present continuous tense is very useful. Here are some times when you should use the present continuous tense.
Activities in Progress
Use the present continuous to talk about things that are happening right now, in the exact moment of speaking.
I am practicing my saxophone.
They're playing hide and seek.
Extended Present
You can also use the present continuous to talk about activities that are in progress over a longer period of time. This time should include the present, and the activity should be something that is ongoing or continuing. You can also use the present continuous to talk about things that are changing.
The storm is getting closer and closer!
Her violin skills are getting better every day.
Using the Simple Present
When you are giving facts and information, you should use the simple present, not the present continuous.
| Use the simple present | I have brown hair and green eyes. |
| Don't use the present continuous | I am having brown hair and green eyes. |
When you are talking about a repeated event or something that happens regularly, use the simple present, not the present continuous.
| Use the simple present | We have Italian class on Tuesdays and Thursdays. |
| Don't use the present continuous | We are having Italian class on Tuesdays and Thursdays. |