There are three main types of conditional sentences: Type A expresses probable conditions using present tense in the if-clause and future tense in the main clause. Type B expresses improbable conditions using past tense in the if-clause and would/should/might + infinitive in the main clause. Type C expresses impossible conditions using past perfect in the if-clause and would/should/might + perfect infinitive in the main clause. Conditional sentences can also be mixed or use substitute words like unless, as long as, provided, supposing.

1. Conditional Sentences

2. Conditional Sentences Composed by 2 clauses one that expresses the condition: introduced by the word “ if ”, commonly known as “if clause”. one that expresses the consequence. Example: If you work hard, you will succeed.

3. There are 3 main types of conditional sentences. Type A : probable condition Type B : improbable condition Type C : impossible condition Conditional Sentences

4. Type A : Probable Condition Used for actions which are true or likely to happen Examples: If it rains tomorrow, we shall cancel the picnic. You will be tired if you do a lot of exercises. Note on pattern A: If + present tense, future tense

5. Type B : Improbable Condition Used for present or future activities which are improbable or unlikely to happen Examples: If it rained tomorrow, we should stay at home. You could start dinner if it were ready. Note on Pattern B: if + past tense, would/should/might + infinitive

6. Type C : Impossible Condition Used for impossible activities which could NOT be true or performed Examples: If it had rained yesterday, I would have stayed at home. What would you have done if you had been attacked by a monster? Note on Pattern C: if + past perfect, would/should/might + perfect infinitive

7. Exercise Try to distinguish the following sentences (type A, B or C). 1. If you take a taxi, you can get there in time for the play. Type A Type B Type C 2. If I had known your arrival, I should have met you. Type A Type B Type C 3. If I dropped this bomb, it would explode . Type A Type B Type C

8. Variations Mixed conditional sentences . We can form mixed conditionals, if the context permits it, by combining an if-clause from one type with a main clause from another. IF-CLAUSE (type 2) + MAIN CLAUSE (type 1) : If she got back late last night, she won’t come to work today. IF-CLAUSE (type 2) + MAIN CLAUSE (type 3) : If you were more sensible, you wouldn’t have spoken to your boss like that. IF-CLAUSE (type 3) + MAIN CLAUSE (type 2) : If she hadn’t missed the bus, she would be here now. Substitute words . We can form conditionals by using words/expressions such as unless, so/as long as, provided/providing, suppose/supposing: Unless you arrive on time you will miss the train; provided/as long as you arrive on time you won’t miss the train.

9. Summary Conditional sentences are composed by 2 clauses one that expresses the condition one that expresses the consequence 3 main types of conditional sentences. Type A : Probable Condition Type B : Improbable Condition Type C : Impossible Condition Variations - Mixed conditionals - Substitute words: unless, so/as long as, provided/providing, suppose/supposing. The End