Conditional Practice

First Conditionals

The first conditional is used for realistic situations that will take place in the future. The first conditional is also
called the "real" conditional.

If + present simple + (then clause) future with "will."

The two clauses can be switched: (then clause) future with "will" + if + present simple.

A comma should be used when beginning the first conditional with the "If" clause.

If you study hard for your English exam, you'll pass it.

You'll pass your English exam if you study hard. *No comma

I might go to your house tomorrow if I finish school early.

Zero Conditionals

Zero conditional is for situations that don't happen on a regular basis. We use future time clauses
for routines, but use the zero conditional for exceptional situations.

If + present, + present

●If you heat water, it boils.

●If you eat healthy, you live longer.

Second Conditionals

The second conditional form is used to imagine a different reality. In other words, the second conditional is an
"unreal" conditional.

If + past tense, would + base form of the verb

If I had the money, I would go to the concert.

I would buy a private jet if I won the lottery.

Notice that the two clauses can be switched: (then clause) would + base form of verb + if + past simple.

Note that a comma should be used when beginning the second conditional with the "If" clause.

*One problem with the second conditional is the use of "were" for all subjects. Cambridge University now also
accepts "was." However, many academic institutions still expect "were."

For example: If I were the teacher, I'd do more grammar. If I was the teacher, I'd do more grammar.