🎓 Prepared by students from Boğaziçi University

What is First Conditional for Real Possibilities?

First conditional describes real, realistic, and likely possibilities in the future. It's used when there is a genuine chance that the condition will be met, leading to a probable consequence. The structure is 'if + present simple, will + base verb'.

Short answer

First conditional uses 'if + present simple, will + base verb'. It expresses real future possibilities and their probable outcomes.

First Conditional: Real Future Possibility

1
Present condition
If + present simple (realistic)
↓
2
Likely future result
Will + base verb
↓
3
Outcome
Probable consequence

Step-by-step worked examples

If you study hard, you will pass the exam.

Condition: If + present simple (you study hard)
Result: Will + base verb (will pass)
Structure: If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
Context: This is realistic—studying leads to passing.

If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic.

Condition: If + present simple (it rains)
Result: Will + base verb (will cancel)
Structure: If it rains tomorrow, we will cancel the picnic.
Context: A realistic weather possibility.

If you miss the bus, you will be late for work.

Condition: If + present simple (you miss the bus)
Result: Will + base verb (will be late)
Structure: If you miss the bus, you will be late for work.
Context: A real-world consequence.

Flashcards

Quick quiz

Q1.If you don't eat breakfast, you __ hungry.

Correct answer: B. First conditional: 'If you don't eat breakfast, you will be hungry.' (present + will).

Q2.Which is first conditional?

Correct answer: C. First conditional: 'If you study, you will pass.' (present simple + will).

Q3.First conditional expresses…

Correct answer: B. First conditional describes realistic, probable future scenarios.

Q4.If we leave now, we __ on time.

Correct answer: B. First conditional: 'If we leave now, we will arrive on time.'

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Common mistakes

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Using present simple in both clauses: 'If you study, you pass.' — Correct: Use 'will' in the result: 'If you study, you will pass.' (future possibility, not universal truth).

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Using past tense: 'If you studied, you would pass.' — Correct: Use present in the condition: 'If you study, you will pass.' (first conditional, not second).

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Using should/might incorrectly: 'If you study, should you pass?' — Correct: Use 'will': 'If you study, you will pass.'

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Confusing first and second conditional. — Correct: First = real future. Second = hypothetical/unlikely. Different structures and meanings.

FAQ

What is first conditional used for?

First conditional expresses real, realistic future possibilities and their probable consequences.

What is the structure of first conditional?

If + present simple, will + base verb. Example: 'If you work hard, you will succeed.'

Can the if-clause come after the main clause?

Yes, 'You will succeed if you work hard.' Both orders are equally correct.

How is first conditional different from second conditional?

First = real, likely future possibility. Second = hypothetical, unlikely, or imaginary situation.