Participles with Conjunctions and Prepositions

Some participle clauses keep a short word before the -ing form to make the relationship clearer. Before leaving shows that one action happens first, after finishing shows the later action, and while waiting shows two actions at the same time. On hearing means immediately when something happens. Preposition phrases such as instead of complaining and in spite of being tired show alternatives and contrast. These small words carry a lot of meaning.

This gap-fill route asks you to choose the word that best fits the logic of the sentence. Look for clues about sequence, simultaneity, reaction, contrast, or choice. If two answers can work, the explanation may show the difference in emphasis: after reading gives sequence, while on reading stresses immediate reaction. All the target structures are followed by an -ing form, so the main challenge is meaning rather than verb formation. Read the whole sentence before choosing the connector and checking your answer carefully.