Present Perfect Simple vs Continuous

Present Perfect Simple vs Continuous

Situation / Focus P. P. Simple P. P. Continuous
Completed action (result/quantity) I've painted the room -
How many / how much I've read 3 books this month -
Permanent or finished result She's broken her leg -
Duration / how long (temporary) - I've been living here for 2 years
Ongoing or repeated action - She's been calling him all day
Recent activity (evidence now) - Why are you so dirty? → I've been gardening
Emphasis on the activity itself - I've been working hard (that's why I'm tired)
Stative verbs I've known him since 2000. - (almost never used)
Both possible (slight difference) I've learned a lot today I've been learning a lot today (focus on process)

Quick rule:

  • Result / how many → Simple
  • Process / how long / recent activity → Continuous