In After packing the mugs, Sam labelled the box, Sam performs both actions. Packing does not mean present time; the main verb places the sequence in the past.

The idea

Use before/after + ing for these time clauses with a shared subject. The opening phrase links to the main clause's subject. In an imperative such as Read…before folding, both actions belong to the implied you.

Examples

  • Before sealing the parcel, we checked the address.
  • After packing the mugs, Sam labelled the box.
  • Before I left work, Lea phoned me.
  • Before leaving work, I phoned Lea.
  • After washing the cloth, Mina let it dry.
  • Read the instructions before folding the paper.

Read-aloud uses a synthetic English voice on your device. Quality and availability vary; it does not assess pronunciation.

Watch out

Do not shorten Before I left work, Lea phoned me to Before leaving work, Lea phoned me: that would normally make Lea the person leaving. Keep the full clause when needed to name a different actor.

Try it yourself

  1. Choose the correct option. Before ___ the parcel, we checked the address. (sealing / seal)

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    sealing

    After before in this reduced pattern, use sealing, not bare seal. We are the people checking and sealing.

  2. Choose the correct option. After ___ the mugs, Sam labelled the box. (packing / to pack)

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    packing

    Use packing after after in this pattern. Sam packs first and labels the box afterwards.

  3. Before leaving work, I phoned Lea. Who was preparing to leave work? (I / Lea)

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    I

    I is the main subject, so the implied person leaving is also I. Lea is the person receiving the call.

Use it today

Combine two actions by the same person with before + ing and after + ing. Then write a sentence with different people and retain both subjects.