Grammar review

Conditional sentence

Verb form in if-clause

Verb form in result-clause

Meaning of if-clause

Use

Examples

0

If + Simple Present

Simple present

Real and Possible situations at any time, but most commonly in present.

1) situations that can occur at any time(more than once) and their results,

2) general truths,

3) general instruction.

If you press this key, the game starts.

If you boil water, it turns into steam.

If you want to start, press the red button.

I

If + Simple Present

Simple Future

Possible in the present or future

1) possible future events and their results,

2) command,

3) offer,

4) warnings.

If it rains, I will stay at home.

If you come home late, don’t make noise.

I’ll call the hotel if you don’t have time.

I’ll call the police if you don’t leave now!

II

If + Simple Past

Would

or + verb

Could

Impossible or not true in the present

. improbable in the future

. imaginary situations

1) improbable future event or situation

2) a hypothetical current situation which is contrary to known facts,

3) giving advice.

If I won a lottery, I would buy an island.

If I knew the answer I would tell you.

If I were you, I would see a doctor.

III

If + Past Perfect

Would

or + have + past participle

Could

Should

Impossible in the past

If I had seen the red light, I would have stopped.

If you had worked hard, you could have passed your exam.