Rule

Keep verb tenses consistent when actions happen at the same time or in a clear sequence.

Question

Choose the grammatically correct sentence.

Options

• (A) When she opened the door, she sees a package on the floor.
• (B) When she opens the door, she saw a package on the floor.
• (C) When she had opened the door, she sees a package on the floor.
• (D) When she opened the door, she saw a package on the floor.

Answer

(D) When she opened the door, she saw a package on the floor.

Solution

1. Both actions happened in the past, so both verbs must be in a past tense.
2. Opened and saw are both simple past, which makes option D consistent.
3. Options A, B, and C each mix a past form with a present form.