Learn Spanish as a second language. Study the difference between Present Subjuntive vs Past Subjuntive

1. Present Subjuntive vs Past Subjuntive
In Spanish, the tense-present or past – of the main-clause verb determines the subjunctive
tense used in
The subordinate clause.
a. When the main clause verb is in the present or present perfect, or is a command, a
present subjunctive form is generally used in the subordinate clause.
b. When the main-clause verb is in the preterite or imperfect, a past subjunctive form is
used in the subordinate clause.
Main clause
Present
Subordinate clause
Present Subjuntive
El gerente dice…
The manager says
…que usted asista.
for you to attend
Present Perfect Present Subjuntive
El gerente ha dicho…
The manager has said…
…que asista.
For you to attend.
Command Present Subjuntive
Gerente: Digale
Manager: Tell him…
… que asista.
… to attend.
Preterite Past Subjuntive
El gerente dijo…
The manager said…
…que usted asista.
…for you to attend.
Imperfect Past Subjuntive
El gerente decia…
The manager (often) said…
…que usted asistiera.
…for you to attend.