How it works
Tense should show the time relationship among events. Use simple past for completed story events, past perfect selectively when an earlier past event needs clarification, present for current facts or opinions, and will/be going to for future actions depending on meaning. Avoid changing tense simply because a new sentence begins. Timeline words such as before, after, by the time, currently, and next week provide additional anchors. In review, draw three columns—before, main event, now/next—and place each verb.
Patterns
Earlier past
By the time + simple past, subject had + past participle.
Clarify that one completed event occurred before another past event.
Plan and commitment
Subject will + base verb / is going to + base verb.
Express a promised action or an already formed plan.
Before and after
- Before
- I arrive at the centre and found the wallet under a bench.
- After
- I arrived at the centre and found the wallet under a bench.
- Why
- Both completed story events belong in simple past.
- Before
- After I will send the receipt, Leon collects the filter.
- After
- After I send the receipt, Leon will collect the filter.
- Why
- Future time clauses normally use present form while the main clause carries will.
Practice
- Place twelve verbs on a past-present-future timeline.
- Retell one story using consistent simple past.
- Write three future time clauses using when, after, or before.
Show the answer key
- Verb choices must match event time and relationship.
- Use past perfect only when an earlier past relationship needs emphasis.
- Do not place will inside the future time clause in the target pattern.
