First conditional: a condition and a possible result
Set a condition, then describe its possible future result. The basic pattern uses present simple after if and will plus a base verb in the result clause. The present form in the condition can refer to a future event.
| English example | Reasoning |
|---|---|
| If I finish early, I will call you. | Finish is present simple even though the condition concerns the future. |
| I will call you if I finish early. | Changing clause order leaves the roles and verb forms unchanged. |
| If → condition; will → expected result | The if-clause says under what circumstances we expect the result. |
One worked example
- If I finish early, I will call you.Finish is present simple even though the condition concerns the future.
- I will call you if I finish early.Changing clause order leaves the roles and verb forms unchanged.
- If → condition; will → expected resultThe if-clause says under what circumstances we expect the result.
Watch out: This is a basic pattern, not a ban on every will after if. Willingness, politeness and other meanings can use different patterns. A result can also use can or an imperative.
Goal, prerequisites and card origin
What you will learn: Build a common conditional sentence about a possible future.
What you need first: Present simple and will with a main verb.
An original PEAZIT working card. Independent expert review and effectiveness testing have not yet taken place. · v1
British Council — grammar reference ↗Show connections
Set a condition, then describe its possible future result. The basic pattern uses present simple after if and will plus a base verb in the result clause. The present form in the condition can refer to a future event.