A tool-holding device (11) for holding a tool (13) on a work machine with a retaining unit (20) and with a lock unit (30). The lock unit (30) can be transferred from a receiving position into a fixing position, and the retaining unit (20) comprises a receiving section (21) for holding the lock unit (30) at least in sections. The lock unit (30) comprises a tool-holding section (33) for holding a tool (13) in a pre-positioned manner. A work machine with this tool-holding device and a method for positioning a tool (13) on a work machine are also disclosed.