Zero and First Conditionals

How many words can you write using the letters of the word CONDITIONALS in 1 minute?

Sometimes we call them 'if clauses'. They describe the result of something that might happen (in the present or future) or might have happened but didn't (in the past) . They are made using different English verb tenses.

There are five types of conditionals in English. They are zero conditionals, first conditionals, second conditionals, third conditionals, and mixed conditionals. Each conditional structure uses a specific tense and conveys a particular meaning.

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To form a zero conditional, we use the simple present in both parts (clauses) of the sentence. The dependent clause may start with if or when.

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For example...​

How to Form Zero Conditionals

Unlike other conditionals, there is no complexity involved in it. We use zero conditionals to talk about general facts.

A zero conditional is easy to understand :)

Ice melts if you heat it.

If I drink tea after dinner, I can't sleep.

Students don't improve if they don't work.

When I'm tired, I take a break.

​For example

Now is your turn to give some examples!

Unless and As Long As

in First Conditionals

We sometimes use as long as, unless, and as soon as instead of if in first conditionals.

Examples:

I will buy a ticket as soon as the booking starts.

Unless there is something really exciting, I won't stay back in Florida.

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The first conditional has the present simple tense in the if/when clause and the result clause uses the simple future tense.

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For example...​

How to Form First Conditionals

The first conditional talks about a particular future situation involving a condition, whereas the zero conditional simply addresses a general fact with no specific condition attached to it. Unlike second conditionals, first conditionals have real or possible situations.

If I focus more on grammar, I will enhance my writing.

When I'm back home, I will call you.

I will buy you lots of toys when I have a job.

​For example

Now is your turn to give some examples!

By Andrea Acosta