Real Conditionals
Real conditionals (also called first conditionals) express situations that are real, possible, or likely to happen. They deal with factual or probable situations in the present or future.
Present Real Conditionals
Structure: if/when/whenever + simple present + simple present in the main clause
Purpose: To describe general facts, routines, or things that are always true
Examples:
I feel nervous if/when/whenever I think about flying.
If water reaches 100°C, it boils.
When children eat too much sugar, they become hyperactive.
Whenever I visit my grandmother, she makes her special cookies.
These sentences describe situations that happen repeatedly or are general truths. The result consistently follows the condition.
Note the difference in meaning:
- Whenever means “every time that” (suggesting multiple occurrences)
- If suggests a possibility (it may or may not happen)
- When assumes the action will definitely happen
Future Real Conditionals
Structure: if/when/whenever + simple present + will / be going to in the main clause
Purpose: To describe possible future situations and their results
Examples:
If you try the therapy, it will make you more confident. (You may or may not try the therapy. The result depends on your choice.)
When/Whenever you try the therapy, it will make you more confident. (The speaker assumes you will try the therapy, and predicts the result.)
If it rains tomorrow, we’ll cancel the picnic.
When the semester ends, I’m going to travel to Spain.
Important: Even though we’re talking about the future, we use the simple present tense (not future) in the if/when/whenever clause.
Real Conditionals with Modals
Structure: if clause + a modal in the main clause
Purpose: To show how likely, necessary, or possible the result is
Examples:
If you don’t understand, you might need to read it again. (Expresses possibility)
Whenever you’re worried, you have to try not to panic. (Expresses necessity)
If you finish early, you can leave. (Expresses permission)
If you want to improve, you should practice every day. (Expresses recommendation)
Key Points to Remember
- In real conditionals, we use the simple present tense in the if/when/whenever clause, even when talking about the future.
- The choice between if, when, and whenever changes the meaning:
- If = possibility (may or may not happen)
- When = certainty (will definitely happen)
- Whenever = every time that (happens repeatedly)
- The main clause can contain:
- Simple present (for general truths)
- Will/be going to (for future results)
- Modal verbs (can, must, should, might, etc.)
- The if-clause can come before or after the main clause:
- If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
- You will pass the exam if you study hard.
- When the if-clause comes first, we usually separate the clauses with a comma.
Common Expressions with Real Conditionals
If you ask me, … (giving an opinion)
If you don’t mind, … (making a polite request)
If you’re interested, … (offering something)
If necessary, … (expressing a possible need)
Ready to Talk About Real Possibilities and Outcomes in English?
Mastering real conditionals (If + Present Simple, will + base verb) is a fantastic step to expressing what happens or will happen under certain conditions in English. It’s how you talk about cause and effect in real-life scenarios!
Do you want to practice forming these essential “if-then” sentences and use them confidently in everyday conversations? My online English classes offer fun, interactive ways to master real conditionals and all other essential grammar points. You’ll get plenty of chances to speak and build your confidence.
Let’s plan your English success together!
Click here to find out more and book your trial class today!