When to use each kind of conditional

For generalities, you should use a present real conditional.

For plans that have requirements or possible setbacks, use a future real conditional.

For wishes, dreams, and speculation that is doubtful use a present/future unreal conditional.

For regrets, things you'd like to have done differently, and any past events you want to change (but you can't since you're still working on that time machine!) use a past unreal conditional.

Where is past real?

Well there is no past real tense because no matter how much Doctor Who we watch... The TARDIS is not going to materialize on your street corner. We can't go back and change the past. If we could, we would, but we can't so we won't. :-)

Punctuation

The punctuation of conditionals really isn't complicated.

First like any sentence, you'll need a period(.), exclaimation point (!), or question mark( ?) at the end.

The special punctuation is true of any sentence with an adverb clause. If the dependent adverb clause is before the independent clause, you need to put a comma after the adverb clause. If the independent clause is before the adverb clause, then there is no comma.

Dependent, Independent.

or

Independent Dependent.

Real means that if the condition is met, the result happens or will happen.

Unreal means that the condition will not be met, did not happen, or that it is very unlikely to happen.

Basic structure

All conditionals require two clauses. There is an adverb clause normally starting with If. There is also an independent clause.

The adverb (IF) clause has the condition, and the Independent clause contains the result.

Each conditional has a different combination of tenses in their clauses to give us an idea of the condition being met or not and time.

The use of the different tenses IS logical but it might not be the same as in your native language.

If you have trouble using conditionals, then you should review the different verb tenses.

If you understand when to use the 12 verb tenses, then you'll find conditionals to be quite easy!

Examples

For more specific examples please see the different conditional types in the link menu.

• If I were you, I would study more grammar.
• I would go camping if I weren't busy designing new pages for the web site.
• If it is windy in Pensacola, it will rain.
• A cold shower is refreshing if it is a hot day.
• Would you lend me ten dollars if I promise to pay you back after I cash my check?
• If we had helped them study for their test, they would have had better grades.