Time clauses before an action (avant de)

Using "avant de"

In English, we often use "before" followed by an "-ing" verb (like "before leaving"). In French, use avant de followed by an infinitive (an unconjugated verb).

Use this construction when the same person performs both actions.

I turned off the light before leaving the bedroom.
J'ai éteint la lumière avant de quitter la chambre.
I am going to unplug the computer before leaving the company.
Je vais débrancher l'ordinateur avant de quitter l'entreprise.
You must download the application before ordering the meal.
Tu dois télécharger l'application avant de commander le repas.
You should warm up the muscles before exercising.
Tu devrais t'échauffer les muscles avant de faire du sport.

Avant vs. avant de

Use avant de before a verb, but use avant before a noun.

I never put on the heating before winter.
Je ne mets jamais le chauffage avant l'hiver.