Sentence structureIntermediate

First Conditional

The First Conditional describes real or possible situations in the future. If the condition in the if-clause is met, the result in the main clause is likely to happen. The structure is: If + present simple, will + base verb. The if-clause and main clause can be in either order.

WHEN TO USE

Use for real, possible future situations — if the condition is realistic and likely to happen. Common for warnings, promises, negotiations, and future plans that depend on a condition.

STRUCTURE

positiveIf + present simple, will + base verb

If it rains tomorrow, I will stay at home.

negativeIf + present simple, won't + base verb

If you don't study, you won't pass the exam.

questionWhat will S + do if + present simple?

What will you do if it rains?

SIGNAL WORDS

if
when
unless
as soon as
provided that
as long as

EXAMPLES

If it rains tomorrow, I will stay at home.

She will call you if she has time.

If you study hard, you will pass the exam.

Unless you hurry, you will miss the bus.

I will help you if you ask me.

COMMON MISTAKES

If it will rain tomorrow, I will stay home.

If it rains tomorrow, I will stay home.

In the if-clause, use present simple — NOT 'will'

If you study hard, you pass the exam.

If you study hard, you will pass the exam.

The result clause needs 'will' for first conditional

Tip

Remember: IF-clause uses PRESENT tense (even though it's about the future). Result clause uses WILL. A common memory trick: 'If + present, will + future'.