Present Progressive-

Continuous
 Present Progressive

The present progressive is formed by combining the verb to be with the present participle. (The
present participle is merely the -ing form of a verb.)
In English, present progressive can be used to describe what is happening now, or what will happen
in the future.
I am studying now.
I am studying with Mara tonight.
 Present Progressive

In Spanish, the present progressive is only used to describe an action that is in the process of taking
place. It is not used for future actions.

I am studying now.
(use present progressive)

I am studying with Mara tonight.

(do not use present progressive)
 Present Progressive

To form the present progressive in Spanish, combine a form of estar with the present participle.

Estoy hablando.
I am speaking.

Juan est comiendo.

John is eating.

Mara est escribiendo una carta.

Mary is writing a letter.
 Use of the Present Progressive

1. actions happening at the moment of speaking

Peter is reading a book now.
2. fixed plans in the near future
We are going to Basel on Saturday.
3. temporary actions
I am working in Rome this month.
4. actions happening around the moment of speaking (longer actions)
My friend is preparing for his exams.
5. trends
More and more people are using their computers to listen to music.
6. repeated actions which are irritating to the speaker (with always, constantly, forever)
Andrew is always coming late.