CONDITIONALS

“If ifs and ands were pots and pans…”

General Truth (zero)
If-clause Main clause
If + present present
simple 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
e.g. If
I
well.
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
might) you
Unreal present (second)

If-clause
Main clause
If + past simple or
Would + verb
past continuous

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)

Main clause
If-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 If I could voice all my
wouldn’t have gotten opinions freely...
into trouble if...
 And others...
If I became friends with
If I had made different
somebody famous...
decisions in life...
 And two more for the road:

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

been different if...