First Conditional in English
First conditional sentences are used for situations that are likely to happen.
In this lesson, you’ll learn how and when to use first conditionals and practise using them.
How to use first conditional sentences?
- Used for likely situations. Actions or events that are likely to happen.
- There are two clauses using ‘if’.
- First conditionals are used to talk about cause and effect (if one thing happens – cause, another thing will happen – effect).
- The structure we use is: if = present simple, main clause = future simple.
- To use the negative – use ‘don’t/doesn’t’ before the verb in ‘if’ and ‘won’t’ in main clause.
Examples
If the student is late for school, the teacher will be unhappy.
If I wake up late, I will be in a hurry.
If he doesn't do his homework, his teacher will be angry.
Remember: likely situations
Practise
Fill the gaps with verbs using the first conditional.
Common mistakes learners make
- Using ‘will’ in the ‘if’ clause.
- Using the wrong tense.
- Forgetting the subject-verb agreement.
Common mistakes learners make
- Using ‘will’ in the ‘if’ clause.
- Using the wrong tense.
- Forgetting the subject-verb agreement.