The Basics of If Sentences

English learners should learn if sentences, also known as conditional forms, in order to discuss various possibilities that are either realistic or imaginary. Follow the introduction below, you will find a grammar overview and explanation for each tense. Once you are familiar with these forms, use the referenced materials to practice and further your understanding of these forms. Teachers can print out the comprehension materials related to the materials, as well as the suggested lesson plans with point-by-point instructions on how to teach the conditional forms in class.

If Sentences

If sentences are used to discuss things that happen based on the condition that something else happens. There are three main types of if sentences.

Use an if sentence in the first conditional to consider real, possible events in the present or future:

If it rains, I'll take an umbrella.

Use an if sentences in the second conditional to speculate about unreal, improbable events in the present moment or future:

If I had a million dollars, I'd buy a big house.

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An if sentence in the third conditional concerns imaginary (unreal) outcomes of past events:

If he had spent more time studying, he would have passed the exam.

If Sentence Forms Overview

If Sentence # 1 = First Conditional

If + S + present simple + objects, S + will + verb + objects
-> If the boys finish their homework early, they will play baseball.

If Sentence # 2 = Second Conditional

If + S + past simple + objects, S + would + verb + objects
-> If he bought a new car, he would buy a Ford.

If Sentence # 3 = Third Conditional

If + S + past perfect + objects, S + would have + past participle + objects
-> If she had seen him, she would have discussed the issues with him.

Study If Sentences In-Depth

Here is a detailed guide to all conditional forms with examples, important exceptions to the rules and a structured guide. The alternate guide provides options for advanced level learners. Finally, this guide to choosing between the first or second conditional provides further help in deciding whether to use the real or unreal conditional.

Teach About If Sentences

This first and second conditional forms lesson employs reading comprehension about emergencies to help students discover and review the forms. Once students are comfortable with the form, they discuss other difficult or unusual situations using the first and second conditional

This conditionals tic-tac-toe is a great game to help students review all three if sentence forms.