Future Time Clauses
After when/if/as soon as/before/after, use present for future meaning
When to Use Future Time Clauses
- •After time/condition words when talking about the future: I'll call you when I arrive.
- •Plans with sequences: We will eat after the guests arrive.
- •Conditions combined with time: If it stops raining, we'll leave immediately.
- •Deadlines/order: Finish your work before you go home.
- •Immediate actions: As soon as he gets here, we'll start.
How to Form Future Time Clauses
Affirmative (+)
Time/condition word + present simple, future (will) in main clause
Negative (-)
Time/condition word + present simple negative, future in main clause
Question (?)
What will you do when/if ...?
💡 Do not use will directly after when/if/as soon as/before/after/until. Use present to express the future in the clause.
Examples of Future Time Clauses
✓Call me when you arrive.
✗Call me when you will arrive.
Use present after when for future meaning.
✓We'll leave as soon as they get here.
✗We'll leave as soon as they will get here.
No will after as soon as.
✓Finish this before you go.
✗Finish this before you will go.
Use present after before.
Common Mistakes with Future Time Clauses
💡 Practice Tips for Future Time Clauses
- • Remember: time clause uses present; main clause uses will/won't.
- • Common starters: when, if, as soon as, before, after, until, once.
- • Swap clause order freely: We'll start when everyone arrives / When everyone arrives, we'll start.
- • Avoid will in the clause after the time/condition word.
Quick Quiz
Grammar sorted. Now grow your vocabulary.