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We use the present simple: a) for permanent states, repeated actions and daily routines. He works in a bank. (permanent state) He takes the train to work every morning. (daily routine|repeated actions) b) for general truths and laws of nature. The sun sets in the west. ¢ for timetables (planes, trains, etc.) and programmes. The plane from Brussels arrives at 8:30. d) for sports commentaries, reviews and narration. a) Peterson overtakes Williams and wins the race. (sports commentary) b) Mike Dalton plays the part of Macbeth. (review) c) Then the prince gets on his horse and quickly rides away. (narration) to give instructions or directions (instead of the imperative). You sprinkle some cheese on the pizza and then you bake it. (Instead of: Sprinkle some cheese on the pizza ...) The present simple is used with the following time expressions: usually, often, always, etc., every day/ week/monthiyear, in the morning/afternoon/ evening, at night, at the weekend, on Mondays, etc. We use the present continuous: a) for actions taking place now, at the moment of speaking. He is giving the baby a bath at the moment. b) for temporary actions; that is actions that are going on around now, but not at the actual moment of speaking. I'm looking for a new job these days. - (He is not looking for a job at the moment of speaking.) ¢ with adverbs such as: always, constantly, continually, etc. for actions which happen very often, usually to express annoyance, irritation or anger. a) I'm always meeting Sara when I go shopping. (action which happens very often) ) You're constantly interrupting me when I'm talking. (expressing annoyanceiirritation) q) for actions that we have already arranged to do in the near future, especially when the time and place have been decided. They're moving into their new house next week. (The time has been decided.) e) for changing or developing situations. More and more species are becoming extinct. The present continuous is used with the following time expressions: now, at the moment, at present, these days, still, nowadays, today, tonight, etc. 
