CONDITIONALS

“If ifs and ands were pots and pans…”

General Truth (zero)
If-clause Main clause
If + present
simple present simple

Used to express something which is

always true. We can also use when
instead of if.
Zero Conditionals
Main clause
If-clause I don’t sleep well.
e.g. If
I
drink
coffee
at night,
 Real / possible present (first)

If-clause Main clause

If + present simple Will + verb

Used to express real or very

probable situations in the present
or future.
First Conditionals
If-clause Main clause
If you call me I will go to the
(which you cinema with you
might)
Unreal present (second)

If-clause Main clause

If + past simple or
past continuous Would + verb

Used to express hypothetical situations which are

contrary to the facts in the present, and
therefore, are unlikely to happen in the present
or future.
Second Conditionals
If-clause Main clause
If you studied you would know
harder (which that (which you
you never do) never do)
Unreal past (third)

If-clause Main clause

Would have +
If + past perfect participle

Used to express hypothetical situations

which are contrary to the facts in the past.
Also used to express regrets or criticism.
Third Conditionals
If-clause Main clause
If I had bought a I would have gone
ticket (which I to the concert (but
didn’t) I did not)
In pairs, complete the sentences so that they
are real for you:
If I wore whatever I I will be grounded for life if...
pleased to school...
A couple more examples:
My best friend wouldn’t
If I could voice all my
have gotten into trouble
if... opinions freely...
 And others...

If I had made different If I became friends with

decisions in life... somebody famous...
 And two more for the road:

I won’t tolerate school if... My grades would’ve

been different if...