The past continuous tense

The past continuous is formed from the past tense of be with the -ing form of the verb (was/were + verb-ing)

Remember: usually STATIVE VERBS are NOT used in the progressive (-ing) form

• Interrupted action in the past 

They were waiting for the strain when I spoke to them.

• Parallel actions

I was studying while my brother was watching TV.

• A series of parallel actions          

When I came to the school, the school bell was ringing, many students were running towards the garden, teachers were going out from classrooms.

• Story background       

While I was driving to work yesterday…

• Past habit      

My mom wasalwayscomplaining about my room when she got there.

• Specific time as an interruption

Last night at 6 p.m., I was eating dinner.

• Emphasis of length of action      

I was working in the garden all day.

• Arrangement in the past  

I was upset because I was leaving this place that morning.