BE GOING to + Infinitive (´Going to´ Future)

Form

Verb ´to be´ in the present, plus going to, plus base form of the verb

Affirmative: - I am going to play football next weekend.

Negative:- I am not going to play football next weekend.

Interrogative:- Are you going to play football next weekend.

CONFUSION with ´present continuous´ is that with the Future tense with ´be going to´
you must follow with a verb.

Usages

 Intentions. Eg. I am going to pass the B1 exam.

 Predictions based on Present Evidence. Eg. I think it´s going to rain later!
 Plans (decisions made before speaking). Eg. I am going to visit my family in April

PROLONGING Present Simple

Usages

 To suggest a more formal situation. Eg. Our new shop opens next month
 For timetables and schedules. Eg. The train to Sydney leaves from platform 5
 To suggest a more Impersonal tone. Eg. They leave tomorrow for Paris.

PROLONGING Present Continuous

Usages

 For definite Situations. Eg. We´re taking a holiday in July

 For decisions and plans without a time frame. Eg. I´m leaving you