● habits

if/when + present simple, present simple

● general facts
● rules
● instructions if THIS happens, this is the result (always).
● general truths

Zero Conditional
the REAL/FACTUAL condition
Examples:
When the sun sets, it gets dark.
If you leave milk out, it spoils.
If the power goes out, we can’t watch TV. (general fact)
If it’s cold, light the fire. (instruction)
Children can swim, if an adult is with them. (rule)
If it’s hot, I go to the beach. (habit)
If you heat water, it boils. (general fact)
 ● predictions if/when + present simple, will + infinitive without to
● superstitions
● plans
if THIS happens, this will likely happen. (might or might not happen)
● offers
● suggestions
● promises
●
●
●
warnings
threats
advice
First Conditional
the POSSIBLE condition
Examples:
If you don’t eat now, you’ll be hungry later. We use the first conditional to
You will feel much better if you take this medicine. talk about possible future
If it rains tomorrow, we will stay home. results in specific situations.
If I go to Egypt next month for work, I’ll visit the pyramids. (plans)
If I have time, I will help you. (promise)
If you touch that wire, you will get an electric shock. (warning)
If you eat my chocolate, you’ll sleep outside with the dog. (threat)
If you drive us to the concert, I’ll pay for the parking. (persuasion)