* Gerund: When "using" acts as the subject or object of a sentence, it functions as a gerund (a noun formed from a verb).
* Example: Using a computer is essential for modern work. (Subject)
* Example: I enjoy using a smartphone for maps. (Object)
* Present participle: When "using" describes an action happening at the same time as another action, it functions as a present participle (an adjective-like form of a verb).
* Example: Using a shovel, she dug a deep hole.
* Part of a verb phrase: "Using" can be part of a verb phrase, indicating a continuous action.
* Example: We are using the new software for our project.
To figure out which part of speech "using" is, look at the context of the sentence and how it is used in relation to other words.