If I am writing the sentence: John is/was presented with an award yesterday.
Which tense should I use? is or was?
How about this? "Please ensure step 1 is completed before proceeding to step 2"
Why "is" is used in this case?
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The only circumstances in which you would use is, would be if you were employing what is known as the historical present.
It is a literary device in which a series of happenings are stated in the present tense even though the reader is aware that it is taking place in the past - e.g.:
There am I, walking down the street, mindin' me own business, and this chap walks up to me and says, 'Are you my long-lost nephew?'
This previous question, on the site will tell you all about it.
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What if it's an on-going, recurring event? "John is presented with an award for perfect attendance every Friday morning." – Scott - Слава Україні Apr 14 '16 at 07:15
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@Scott That is a normal use of the present tense, as it is still happening. The historical present describes past events. – WS2 Apr 14 '16 at 10:00
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@WS2 How about this? "Please ensure step 1 is completed before proceeding to step 2" – ilovetolearn Apr 14 '16 at 14:17
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@optimus The principal verb is ensure, in the imperative mood. The stative verb is forms part of the object clause. It relates to a future event, as in Next year Christmas Day is* on a Thursday*. – WS2 Apr 14 '16 at 16:16
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@WS2 that is why I am using present tense to-be "IS" and past tense for the verb "COMPLETED"? - I still don't quite get it – ilovetolearn Apr 14 '16 at 23:30
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@optimus Have a look at this question - it may help – WS2 Apr 15 '16 at 00:17
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Past tense since yesterday is in the past.
John was presented...
CharlieATX
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1You'd still use "was" if the award was presented at any point in history prior to the current moment. – John Clifford Apr 13 '16 at 14:57