The First Conditional is used to talk about probable events. This means that these things are likely to happen in the future because they are habitual or everyday occurrences.
We insist that the 1st conditional is ONLY FOR PROBABLE EVENTS, study the example; “If I finish my homework on time, I will meet my friends at the shopping centre.” and not “If I win the lottery, I will buy a car”. While this phrase does make grammatical sense, it is not probably and is more likely to be with the 2nd conditional
The 1st conditional is formed like this:
+ IF/WHEN SUBJECT + PRESENT, SUBJECT WILL + VERB
If I have some free time, I will call you.
Or change the word order:
I will call you if I have some free time.
– IF/WHEN SUBJECT + PRESENT (NOT), SUBJECT WILL NOT + VERB
If you miss the train, you will not catch your flight.
? IF/WHEN SUBJECT + PRESENT, WILL SUBJECT + VERB?
If we get our results on Friday, will you let me know?
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We normally use contractions to express negatives..
do not = don´t
does not = doesn´t
will not = won´t
can not = can´t
Another important aspect of the first conditional is the adverbs we can use:
UNLESS = IF NOT
You will not pass the exam unless you study.
I will get cross unless you tidy your room.
WHEN = IF (MORE PROBABLE)
When you receive the email, can you call me?
I will take a break when I learn this grammar tense.
AS LONG AS = PROVIDING THAT
As long as you prepare for the exam, you will pass.
I will see you at 10 o´clock as long as I do not miss the bus.
Practice questions:
- Will you meet your friends on Saturday if you have the chance?
- Will you watch TV this evening if you can?
- If you find out anything interesting when you are studying, can you send me a message about it?
- Can you get in shape quickly when you do exercise?
- Where will you go on holiday this summer if you go abroad?
