The First Conditional
Master the art of expressing real possibilities in English
📝 Definition
The first conditional is used to express real possibilities in the present or
future. It describes situations that are likely to happen if a certain condition is
met. This conditional talks about things that are possible and likely to occur.
🔧 Structure
IF + Present Simple, WILL + Base Verb
The first conditional consists of two parts:
IF clause (condition): Uses present simple tense
Main clause (result): Uses will + base form of the verb
💡 Important Note
The order of clauses can be reversed. When the main clause comes
first, no comma is needed.
📚 Examples
Basic Examples
If it rains tomorrow, we will stay at home.
Condition: it rains → Result: we will stay at home
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
Condition: you study hard → Result: you will pass
She will be happy if you call her.
Main clause first (no comma needed)
More Complex Examples
If we don't hurry, we will miss the bus.
Negative condition with negative consequence
If the weather is nice, we will go to the beach and have a picnic.
Multiple actions in the result clause
You will feel better if you get some rest.
Advice using first conditional
🎯 Common Uses
When to Use the First Conditional
1. Making predictions: "If it snows tonight, the roads will be
dangerous tomorrow."
2. Giving warnings: "If you don't wear a coat, you will catch a
cold."
3. Making promises: "If you help me, I will help you later."
4. Giving advice: "If you want to lose weight, you will need to
exercise more."
5. Expressing plans: "If I have time this weekend, I will visit my
grandmother."
🔄 Alternatives to "Will"
While "will" is the most common modal verb used in first conditionals, you can
also use:
Modal Alternatives
Can: "If you finish your homework, you can watch TV."
May: "If it's sunny tomorrow, we may go to the park."
Must: "If you want to pass, you must study harder."
Should: "If you feel sick, you should see a doctor."
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't Make These Errors
❌ Wrong: "If it will rain, we will stay home."
✅ Correct: "If it rains, we will stay home."
Don't use "will" in the if-clause
❌ Wrong: "If you study hard you will pass."
✅ Correct: "If you study hard, you will pass."
Use a comma when the if-clause comes first
❌ Wrong: "If I will have time, I help you."
✅ Correct: "If I have time, I will help you."
Use present simple in if-clause, will + base verb in main clause
💭 Practice Tips
💡 How to Master the First Conditional
1. Start with simple sentences and gradually build complexity
2. Practice with real situations from your daily life
3. Pay attention to comma placement - it depends on clause order
4. Remember the time reference - present or future possibilities
5. Use various modal verbs to express different degrees of
certainty
First Conditional Grammar Guide • Perfect for expressing real possibilities and future plans
