CEFR B1

    First Conditional Sentences

    Learn to talk about possible future situations and their likely results. Practice making accurate predictions in everyday English conversations and writing.

    Learning Objectives

    Understand how to form the first conditional using if + present simple and will + base verb.
    Learn when to use the first conditional to talk about real or possible future situations.
    Use the first conditional naturally in B1-level conversation to express likely outcomes.
    Finish the lesson by confidently talking about possible future situations and their consequences!

    What Is the First Conditional?

    The First Conditional is used to talk about real or possible situations in the future and their likely results. It expresses what will probably happen if a certain condition is met.

    Basic Structure

    If + Present Simple, ... will + base verb

    ✓ If it rains, we will stay at home.

    ✓ If you study hard, you will pass the exam.

    Usage and Variations

    1. Real or Likely Future Situations

    We use the First Conditional when something is likely or realistic to happen in the future.

    • If I finish work early, I will meet my friends.
    • If it doesn't rain, we will have a picnic.

    2. Modal Verbs and Imperatives

    Instead of 'will', we can use other modals like may, might, or can to change meaning.

    • If you need help, I can help you.
    • If it rains, we might stay at home.

    3. Inverted or Mixed Order

    You can place the if-clause at the beginning or end of the sentence. When it's at the start, use a comma.

    • If it snows, we will stay inside.
    • We will stay inside if it snows.

    Common Mistakes to Avoid

    ❌ Wrong: If it will rain, we will stay at home.

    ✓ Correct: If it rains, we will stay at home. (use present simple in if-clause)

    ❌ Wrong: If I will have time, I will call you.

    ✓ Correct: If I have time, I will call you. (use present simple in if-clause)

    ❌ Wrong: If you will study, you pass the exam.

    ✓ Correct: If you study, you will pass the exam. (use will in main clause)

    ❌ Wrong: If she comes, I would help her.

    ✓ Correct: If she comes, I will help her. (use will for first conditional)

    Learning Tips

    • Remember: If + present simple, will + base verb
    • The if-clause always uses the present simple, even though it refers to the future
    • Use will for certainty, but you can use might or could for less certain results
    • Practice by thinking about real possibilities in your life and what you would do
    • Pay attention to the comma when the if-clause comes first
    • Listen for first conditionals in movies, songs, and everyday conversations

    Speaking Practice

    To practice your pronunciation, listen to the native speaker audio first. Then 'Record' yourself repeating what you heard, then use the 'Playback' button to compare your pronunciation with the native speaker. If you want to record yourself again, simply click 'Delete'!

    ✓ If she calls, I will answer immediately.

    ✓ If they don't hurry, they will miss the train.

    ✓ You won't pass the test if you don't study.

    ✓ If I see him, I will tell him the news.

    ✓ If the weather is nice, we will go to the beach.

    Your exercises are loading!

    Your exercises are loading!

    Your exercises are loading!

    Continue Your Learning Journey

    Keep building your English skills with these carefully selected next steps

    Help Other People Just Like You Improve Their English!

    Share Free Daily English With Them Today!