Hi February, To choose the right option for the sentence, we have to understand the root form of both words. (1) Lie (simple present tense) This word means that someone's body is flat and supported by a surface (eg a bed) The present continuous tense of "lie" is "lying". Example: Feeling exhausted from all the physical labour, Tom lies down and takes a rest. / He was lying down when he heard a loud bang. (2) Lay (simple present tense) This word means that (i) something is placed on a surface OR (ii) a bird producing eggs. The present continuous tense of "lay" is "laying". Example: (i) Mother likes to lay the picnic mat under a shady tree. / Mother is laying the picnic mat on the grass now. (ii) The chickens lay eggs daily in the farm. / The chickens are no longer laying eggs in the farm! Back to your sentence, the answer should be "lying". * The confusion for many students arise for the word "lie", because "lie" also happens to have another meaning. Lie (simple present tense): Not telling the truth Lying (present continuous tense) Example: Don't you dare lie to me! / He has been lying in front of the judge. Hope this helps. Cheers, Lance

the answer is laying!