Language/Spanish/Grammar/Conditional-Mood

Zero Conditional

if-clause	Main clause
If/When + Present Simple	Present Simple

The Zero Conditional is used to talk about general truths.

Ex. If/When you press the button, the machine starts.

Conditional Sentences Type 1

We use Conditional Sentences Type 1 for something which is likely to happen in the present or future.

if-clause	Main clause
If + Present Simple	-Future will
	-Modal Verbs (can, amy, might, must, should) + base form
	-Imperative

If I see James, I will give him his book back.

If you want a pet, you must promise to take care of it.

If you go to the supermarket, buy some milk.

Conditional Sentences Type 2

We use Conditional Sentences Type 2 for unreal or imaginary situations which are unlikely to happen in the present or the future.

if-clause	Main clause
If + Past Simple	Would/could/might + base form

If I won the lottery, I would buy a farm in the country.

You could lose some weight if you went on a diet.

I might move to London if I got a good job there.

-In Conditional Sentences Type 2 were is often used instead of was in the if-clause. If I were rich, I would live in a luxurious house. -We use If I were you to express an opinion or to give advice. If I were you, I wouldn't buy it. -Unless can be used instead of If...not... in all conditional sentences. I won't buy this car unless you agree (= if you don't agree) -When the if-clause comes before the main clause, the two clauses are separated by a comma.

Conditional Sencentes Type 3

if-clause	Main clauses
If + Past Perfect	Would/could/might + have + past participle.

Conditional Sentences Type 3 are used:

-To talk about unreal or imaginary situations in the past.

If I had won the lottery, I would have left my job.

-To express regret

If I hadnt' gone to bed so late last night, I would have woken up on time this morning.

-To criticise somebody/something.

If youhad completed your degree, you might have found a better job.