Simple present or present continuous?

The simple present and the present continuous tenses can both be used to talk about the future. The simple present tense is used to talk about events which are part of a timetable. It is also used with a future meaning in subordinate clauses.

The present continuous tense is used to talk about pre-planned future events. In other cases, we are more likely to use a simple future tense.

Complete the following sentences using an appropriate verb form.

1. The summer term ………………….. on April 18th.

2. My plane ………………. at 3.30.

3. When …………………. in Bangkok?

4. I will pay you back when I ………………….. a job.

5. I ………………… to the US next week.

6. She ………………….. for a new job.

7. Granny’s train ………………….. at 5.30.

8. I will tell you if I ………………….. her name.

9. ‘What ………………… there?’ ‘I …………………. a cake.’

10. I ………………….. Lucia on Tuesday.

Answers

1. The summer term starts on April 18^th.

2. My plane leaves at 3.30.

3. When does the train arrive in Bangkok?

4. I will pay you back when I get a job.

5. I am going to the US next week.

6. She is looking for a new job.

7. Granny’s train arrives at 5.30.

8. I will tell you if I know her name.

9. ‘What are you doing there?’ ‘I am making a cake.’

10. I am seeing Lucia on Tuesday.