In Common errors^x, Simple past^x

Hi, Hey. Can you please tell me how should I know which form to use. Here is an example Once I (spend)__ the whole day in the jungle.I always want to use "had spent", because I'm given the time in the sentece. But the right answer should be "spent"...Why? I do not get...

Cool Breeze wrote: Goodman wrote:I'll say "sunjunctive".I agree.Of course it's not the subjunctive (but it should be). "Saw" is the simple past (indefinite preterite). This is a common error made by native english speakers in conjunction with the conditional.The subjunctive of any verb takes...

Hi, 1. Past Perfect Not a good idea for the paragraph we are looking at. generally, it's a common error to use Past Perfect when Simple Past is better. 2. (would+V2): I would ride... Yes, that's OK, if you want to write about 'past habits/routines'. Best wishes, Clive

It was only 10 days ago that the accident happened. It is only 10 days since the accident happened. When the sentence has two clauses like this, and is viewed from the present time, ago is preceded by the simple past tense (was), and since by the present or present perfect tense (is, has been)....