Time clauses with when, while, before, after, and as soon as always use the present simple to talk about the future, never will, even though the meaning is future, as in I will call you when I arrive. Only the main clause uses will.
Grammar Rule
These time clauses always use the present simple to talk about the future, never will, even though the meaning is future. Only the main clause uses will.
Time Clauses: Rules and Examples
| Time word | Clause tense | Example |
|---|---|---|
| when | present simple | I will call you when I arrive. |
| while | present simple | She will make dinner while you rest. |
| before | present simple | We will leave before it gets dark. |
| after | present simple | He will text me after he finishes. |
| as soon as | present simple | I will let you know as soon as I hear news. |
Remember: in the time clause use the present simple, never will, even when the meaning is future.
Practice Test
Instructions
Answer each question in the test below forming the correct time clause sentence. You will get a new random set of questions every time you retake the test, plus a downloadable results summary with your name and score at the end.
Time Clauses – When, While, Before, After, As Soon As (with Present/Future)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What tense do time clauses use to talk about the future?
Time clauses always use the present simple to talk about the future, as in I will call you when I arrive, never will.
Which part of the sentence uses will?
Only the main clause uses will; the time clause itself always uses the present simple.
What time words introduce a time clause?
Common time words include when, while, before, after, and as soon as.
What is a common mistake with time clauses?
A common mistake is using will inside the time clause itself, saying when I will arrive instead of the correct when I arrive.