A. Present continuous for future
We use am/is/are + -ing (present continuous) for something happening now:
They are playing tennis (now).
‘Where are Sue and Caroline?’ ‘They’re playing tennis in the park.’
Please be quiet. I’m working.
We also use am/is/are + -ing for the future (tomorrow / next week etc.):
Andrew is playing tennis tomorrow.
I’m not working next week.
B. I am doing something tomorrow = I have arranged to do it, I have a plan to do it
Alice is going to the dentist on Friday. (= she has an appointment to see the dentist)
We’re having a party next weekend.
Are you meeting Bill this evening?
What are you doing tomorrow evening?
I’m not going out tonight. I’m staying at home.
You can also say ‘I’m going to do something’ (= Unit 27).
C. Do not use the present simple (I stay / do you go etc.) for plans and arrangements:
I’m staying at home this evening. (not I stay)
Are you going out tonight? (not Do you go)
Ann isn’t coming to the party next week. (not Ann doesn’t come)
But we use the present simple for timetables, programmes, trains, buses etc.:
The train arrives at 7.30.
What time does the film finish?
Compare
| present continuous – usually for people | present simple – timetables, programmes etc. |
| I’m going to a concert tomorrow. | The concert starts at 7.30. |
| What time are you leaving? | What time does your train leave? |
present continuous → UNITS 3-4
present simple → UNITS 5-7
I’m going to … → UNIT 27
Examples
Andrew is playing tennis tomorrow.
We’re having a party next weekend.
Are you meeting Bill this evening?
I’m not going out tonight. I’m staying at home.
The train arrives at 7.30.
What time does the film finish?
Unit 26: What are you doing tomorrow? • Full Interactive Textbook