Gerund, how to identify it clearly?

Question

I'm looking for my notebook. I remember ..... it into my suitcase when I left for work.

Q: Do I always have to fill 'gerund' in the blank?

Answer 1

Each English verb licenses (permits) a particular set of complement types. Remember is slightly unusual in having a different meaning with different complement types.

• With gerund clauses and fused relative clauses, remember has the sense “recall, experience a memory of” a previous event:

  I remember putting my noteboook into my briefcase when I left for work.
  I remember where I put my notebook when I left for work—in my briefcase.

• With infinitive clauses, however, it means “recall (and subsequently perform)” a future obligation:

  I remembered to put my noteboook into my briefcase when I left for work.
  Remember to put your noteboook into your briefcase when you leave for work.

• With ‘content’ clauses it may have either meaning; the relationship between the tenses in the main clause and the subordinate clause tell you which is intended.

  I remember [that] I put my notebook into my briefcase when I left for work.
  I remembered [that] I must put my notebook into my briefcase when I left for work.

  _{As this question tells us, you may encounter infinitive phrases being employed in this double sense as recently as the late nineteenth century; but this is no longer the case in Present-day English.}