Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[Jerry Chen]

Hello,


Please read the following sentence:

Exactness is important when solving mathematical problems.

I wonder why "when+V-ing" can be used in the above sentence.

I know the sentence means: when you solve mathematical problems, exactness is important. Since the clauses include different subjects, i.e., you and exactness, why can the sentence be changed to "...when solving..."?

Could you please explain that? Thanks for your help!!

[asterix]

You are using when in its sense of, at, or during the time that.

So, Exactness is important during the time that (you are) solving mathematical problems.

Six words are replaced by one when.

In fact, exactness is more than important; it is essential.