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Longman Dictionary of Common Errors

Present I Future Long Tense Perfect Expresses Talking

Header Talking about the future
Entry
  • When you talk about something happening in the future, you often use one of the following conjuctions:
    • TIMEafter, as soon as, before, immediately, once, the moment, until, when, whenever, while
    CONDITIONif, whether, as long as, in case, unless
  • To refer to the future after these conjunctions, use the present simple tense (NOT will/shall):
    • I'll phone you as soon as I arrive at the airport.
    The plane should be taking off shortly, as long as there aren't any delays.
Note:
  1. Sometimes it is possible to use the present perfect tense instead of the present simple. The present perfect expresses a sense of completion:
    2. She doesn't want to buy a car until she's passed her driving test.
    Once you've made a few friends, you won't feel so lonely.
  2. When the clause beginning with if, whether, when, etc. is the object of the sentence, will may be used:
    3. I doubt whether David will still recognize me.
    I don't know when they'll be back.

    Also, if ... will is possible when will expresses the idea of willingness:

    What are you going to do if she won't help you?
    If you'll take a seat for a moment, I'll tell Mr Fox you're here.

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