Conditional sentences express a choice and the possible consequences of that choice.
There are three types of conditional sentences: Real, Unreal and Unreal Past. The first
type is the easiest to learn. It involves a present choice and a future consequence.
If you drive north for three miles, you will get to Columbus.
If he doesn't exercise, Fred will gain weight.
If you purchase a raffle ticket, you might win a car.
Real conditional sentences contain two parts, the if clause, and the result clause.
The if clause indicates the choice and is expressed in present tense. It indicates a choice and can be either positive or negative. If statements can also imply the opposite choice and result.
| If you study hard you will pass the
test. |
(Choice and possible result) |
| If you don't study hard, you could fail. |
(Implied opposite choice and result. |
The result clause indicates the consequence or possible consequence, and
is expressed in future tense or with modals can, could or might.
| If clause |
Result clause |
| If you eat your spinach, |
you will grow stronger. |
| If I quit my job, |
I can spend more time with the kids. |
| If Troy moves to Hollywood, |
he might become a movie star. |
Textbook Recommendation : Touchy Situations, Chapter 11
See also :
Conditional Introduction (from Englishpage.com)
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