Even when studying grammar we must bear in mind the messages we want to deliver. So you must think the tenses in terms of ideas rather than form (though the form is also essential). Knowing the form without an accurate understanding of the usage does no good and leaves you stuck in basic with the structures you are comfortable with. It does not matter so much how many book exercises on tenses you have done.
A grammar formula without an idea is like a body without a soul. So, let's have a look at some ideas together, shall we?
*I drive to work. (Long lasting action, routine, something which always happens)
*I am taking the bus to work this week. (Maybe my car is at the mechanic's, so it is a temporary situation)
*I am going to work NOW. (By car or by bus this action is taking place as we speak)
*She walked home yesterday. (Puts emphasis on the completion, something that she did yesterday)
*She was walking home when she lost her keys. (Put emphasis on the continuity of the action, the action walk was still in progress when the second action - lose- took place)
*He has worked as a bricklayer his entire life. (Again, long term action)
*He has been working as a bricklayer lately. (It is just a temporary job, he thinks of working as something other)
*They had lived on the farm for years (Emphasis on long lasting activity which is OVER now)
*They had been living on the farm when their first child died. (Emphasis on continuity of the activity in the past which was interrupted by the tragic death)
*I will wait for you. (Completion is the emphasis, do not worry, you will find me there)
*I will be waiting for you when you get there. (Continuity is the emphasis, relax, I will arrive earlier than you and by the time you arrive I will be already waiting)
Hope that you understand more of tenses with this brief explanation. Remember: language is a whole new world to be explored. Unravel it!
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