The progressive tenses convey an action that is happening at a particular time—which is a little like the simple tenses, but I think—I think—the difference is the progressive is putting us in that particular moment. So, while the ST says “It will snow tomorrow,” which gives us a general time and event, the PT says, “It will be snowing when we arrive,” which seems a bit more specific…but don’t quote me. I feel like I need a giant bag of chocolate to figure this all out.
But here’s a handy tip: you know you’re in the progressive tense (also known as the continuous tense) because you’ll see a form to the verb “be” along with the present participle of the other verb (“ing”). In other words, if you see “be + ing” you’re in the progressive tense:
I am sleeping (right now, in this moment); I was eating (when the fire alarm went off); I will be painting (in the afternoon).
Not sure if I understand the nuance between the ST & PT, but certainly, I can differentiate them, which is half the battle…right?