Conditionals show either real or hypothetical results that could happen if another thing happens. They are often used to speculate about future consequences.

First conditional

Use to make prediction the results of real or possible events.

Structure

if + simple present (condition), will + verb (result)

The two parts can be reversed

Examples

If the library improves study spaces, more students will use the facilities.

• It's possible for the library to improve the study spaces, so this is making a prediction about a possible result.

I'll bake a cake if I have time this evening.

• It's quite likely I'll have time this evening, so this is making a prediction about a real result.

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explanation & examples (EF)

exercises (NEF)

Second conditional

Used to speculate about the results of hypothetical (possible, but unlikley) or impossible events

Structure

if + simple past (condition), would/could + verb (result)

The two parts can be reversed

Examples

More students would be able to afford to study at university if the government reduced tutition fees.

• It's possible for the government to reduce fees, but it's very unlikely, so this is speculating about a hypothetical result.

If I were an animal, I would be a giraffe.

• It's impossible to be an animal, so this is speculating about an impossible result.

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explanation & examples (EF)

explanation & exercises (BC, 1st & 2nd)

exercises (Oxford)