The present simple tense is used to describe habits, routines, and general truths, while the present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking.

Here are some examples that illustrate the difference between the present simple and present continuous tenses:

1. Present simple: “I eat breakfast every morning.” (habit)
   Present continuous: “I am eating breakfast right now.” (action happening at the moment of speaking)
2. Present simple: “The sun rises in the east.” (general truth)
   Present continuous: “The sun is rising in the east.” (action happening at the moment of speaking)
3. Present simple: “She speaks Spanish fluently.” (routine or ability)
   Present continuous: “She is speaking Spanish on the phone with her friend.” (action happening at the moment of speaking)

As you can see, the present simple tense is used to describe habits, routines, and general truths, while the present continuous tense is used to describe actions that are happening at the moment of speaking. It is important to use these tenses correctly and appropriately in order to convey the intended meaning clearly and accurately.