Time linkers: first, then, before, after
First, then, after that, finally, and before, after and when: putting events and instructions in order.
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To tell a story or give instructions in order, we use sequencers: first, then, after that, finally. To join two events in one sentence, we use before, after and when.
First, then, after that, finally
These words show the order of steps or events. They usually go at the start of a sentence.
Step | Words |
|---|---|
the first | First, First of all |
the middle | Then, Next, After that, Afterwards |
the last | Finally, In the end |
- First, I made a cup of coffee.
- Then I checked my emails.
- After that, I called a few clients.
- Finally, I had lunch at about two.
We usually put a comma after First, After that, Afterwards and Finally. After then, we usually don't.
Instructions and recipes
With the imperative, sequencers make instructions easy to follow.
- First, cut the onions.
- Next, fry them in a little oil.
- Then add the tomatoes.
- Finally, put everything on a plate and serve.
At first is not a sequencer. It means "in the beginning, but not later": At first I didn't like London, but now I love it.
- Incorrect: At first, switch off the computer. Then open the cover.
- Correct: First, switch off the computer. Then open the cover.For the first step, use first, not at first.
Finally and in the end
Finally introduces the last step. In the end says what happened after a long time or after problems.
- Finally, sign the form and send it back.
- We waited for an hour. In the end, we took a taxi.
After that, not after
After joins two events in one sentence. To start a new sentence, use after that or afterwards. After alone at the start is common in speech, but in writing use after that.
- We had dinner. After that, we went for a walk.
- We went for a walk after dinner.
- Incorrect: After that we had dinner, we went for a walk.
- Correct: After we had dinner, we went for a walk.Inside one sentence, use after, not after that.
Before, after and when + a sentence or a noun
Before, after and when can be followed by a whole sentence (subject + verb). Before and after can also be followed by a noun or an -ing form.
- Before you leave, close the windows.
- I'll have a shower after I get home.
- When I arrived, everyone was asleep.
- Don't drink coffee before bed.
- Wash your hands after cooking.
- Incorrect: After finish work, I go to the gym.
- Correct: After I finish work, I go to the gym. / After finishing work, I go to the gym.After a time word, use a subject + verb, or the -ing form.
When before, after or when comes first, we put a comma at the end of that part.
The future: present after when, before, after
When the sentence is about the future, use the present simple after when, before and after, not will.
- I'll call you when I arrive.
- Before you go, can you give me the key?
- We'll have dinner after the guests leave.
- Incorrect: I'll text you when I will get to the station.
- Correct: I'll text you when I get to the station.After when, use the present simple for the future.