At a glance
- Start
- Is the main verb present or future?Yesany tense that fitsHe says that he was / is / will be tired.
- Is the second part a fact that is always true?Yespresent simpleShe said that the earth moves round the sun.
- Is the main verb past?Yesa past formHe said that he was tired.
- After than or as: any tense that fitsHe loved you more than he loves me.
The main rule
He says that he is tired.
He said that he was tired.
She hopes she will win. → She hoped she would win.
I think he can swim. → I thought he could swim.
| Present | changes to | Past |
|---|---|---|
| is / are | -> | was / were |
| will / can / may | -> | would / could / might |
| has / have + V3 | -> | had + V3 |
| V1 / V1 + s | -> | V2 |
Exceptions
The teacher said that the earth goes round the sun. (always true)
He told me that honesty is the best policy. (a saying)
She was taller than her brother is now. (comparison)
Other fixed patterns
She works hard so that she may pass. → She worked hard so that she might pass.
It has been five years since he left the village.
Walk carefully lest you should fall.
It's time we went to bed.
He talks as if he were a king.
Practice
Answer the questions. Get 7 out of 10 to finish this lesson.