Printable First vs Second Conditional Exercises - 101 PDF Worksheets with Answers
First Conditional vs Second Conditional Printable PDF Worksheet Tests with Exercises and Answers
Access a collection of 101 printable PDF worksheets focusing on the English grammar topic of the first vs second conditional.
Download fill-in-the-blank tests with exercises and answer keys for first conditional vs second conditional to print for free.
The activities in the sheets are suitable for kids, adults, ESL learners at the beginner, elementary, and intermediate levels to practice English grammar.
1. Introduction to Conditionals in English
Conditionals are a fundamental aspect of English grammar, allowing us to express various degrees of possibility, probability, and hypothetical situations. They enable us to convey how one event or situation depends on another, making our communication more precise and nuanced. In this essay, we will delve into two important types of conditionals: the First Conditional and the Second Conditional.
Understanding and effectively using these conditionals is crucial for English learners as they provide a framework for discussing real and hypothetical scenarios, making predictions, giving advice, and expressing desires. In this exploration, we will unravel the intricacies of the First Conditional and the Second Conditional, shedding light on their grammar, structure, and practical applications.
Understanding the Conditional Mood
Before we dive into the specifics of the First and Second Conditionals, let's establish a foundational understanding of the conditional mood in English. The conditional mood is used to express the dependency or conditionality of one event or action on another. It allows us to discuss hypothetical, unreal, or potential situations and their outcomes.
The conditional mood is typically formed using the word "if" to introduce the condition or clause upon which the result depends. It also involves auxiliary verbs (such as "will", "would", "can", "could", "should", etc.) to convey the possibility, probability, or certainty of the result.
There are several types of conditionals in English, each serving a distinct purpose. In this essay, we will focus on the First Conditional and the Second Conditional, which are commonly used in both written and spoken English.
2. The Basics of First Conditional
The First Conditional is used to discuss real and likely future situations or events that are contingent upon a specific condition being met. It is characterized by its structure, which consists of two clauses: the "if" clause (the condition) and the main clause (the result or consequence).
2. 1. Structure of First Conditional:
If + Present Simple, Future Simple
The "if" clause is in the Present Simple tense, while the main clause is in the Future Simple tense. This structure emphasizes that the condition is likely to be fulfilled, and the result is expected to occur.
The Basics of Second Conditional
The Second Conditional, on the other hand, is employed to discuss hypothetical, unreal, or unlikely situations and their potential outcomes. It is also composed of two clauses: the "if" clause (the unreal or hypothetical condition) and the main clause (the unreal or hypothetical result).
2. 2. Structure of Second Conditional:
If + Past Simple, Would + Base Verb
In the Second Conditional, the "if" clause is in the Past Simple tense, while the main clause uses "would" followed by the base form of the verb. This structure signals that the condition is improbable or contrary to fact, and the result is a hypothetical consequence.
3. Grammar and Structure of First Conditional
3. 1. Forming First Conditional Sentences
To construct a First Conditional sentence, follow this structure:
Begin with the "if" clause, which is in the Present Simple tense and introduces the condition.
Follow the "if" clause with a comma.
Continue with the main clause, which is in the Future Simple tense and conveys the expected result or consequence.
Example 1:
If it rains, I will stay at home.
In this sentence:
"If it rains" is the Present Simple "if" clause, indicating the condition.
"I will stay at home" is the Future Simple main clause, denoting the expected result.
3. 1. 1. Using "If" in First Conditional
The use of "if" is essential in forming First Conditional sentences. It introduces the condition that must be met for the result to occur. "If" is a conjunction that links the two clauses, creating a cause-and-effect relationship in the sentence.
Example 2:
If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
In this example, "if you study hard" sets the condition, and "you will pass the exam" presents the expected result. The conjunction "if" connects these two elements, making it clear that passing the exam depends on studying hard.
3. 1. 2. The Role of "Will" in First Conditional
In First Conditional sentences, the main clause employs "will" followed by the base form of the verb to express the future tense. "Will" indicates that the result is expected or likely to happen if the condition is met.
Example 3:
If she calls me, I will answer the phone.
Here, "I will answer the phone" demonstrates the use of "will" to signify the future action, contingent upon the condition expressed in the "if" clause.
3. 1. 3. Expressing Future Possibilities with First Conditional
First Conditional sentences are particularly useful for discussing future possibilities and predictions based on present conditions. They convey a sense of likelihood and are often used in everyday conversations.
Example 4:
If we catch the early train, we will arrive in time for the meeting.
In this sentence, "we will arrive in time for the meeting" is the predicted future outcome, provided that the condition (catching the early train) is fulfilled.
3. 2. The Basics of Second Conditional
3. 2. 1. Forming Second Conditional Sentences
Constructing Second Conditional sentences involves the following structure:
Begin with the "if" clause, which is in the Past Simple tense and introduces an unreal or hypothetical condition.
Follow the "if" clause with a comma.
Continue with the main clause, which uses "would" followed by the base form of the verb to express the hypothetical or unreal result.
Example 5:
If I won the lottery, I would travel the world.
In this sentence:
"If I won the lottery" is the Past Simple "if" clause, representing an unreal or hypothetical condition.
"I would travel the world" is the main clause, indicating the hypothetical result.
3. 2. 2. Using "If" in Second Conditional
Similar to the First Conditional, the use of "if" is crucial in forming Second Conditional sentences. "If" introduces the unreal or hypothetical condition that serves as the basis for the potential result.
Example 6:
If I had a magic wand, I would grant your wishes.
In this example, "if I had a magic wand" establishes the hypothetical condition, while "I would grant your wishes" expresses the unreal result. The conjunction "if" connects these two elements, creating the conditional relationship.
3. 2. 3. The Role of "Would" in Second Conditional
In Second Conditional sentences, "would" is used in the main clause to convey the hypothetical or unreal nature of the result. It signifies that the action in the main clause is contingent upon the unreal or unlikely condition presented in the "if" clause.
Example 7:
If she were here, she would help you.
Here, "she would help you" demonstrates the use of "would" to indicate the hypothetical action that would occur if the unreal condition "if she were here" were met.
3. 2. 4. Imagining Unreal Outcomes with Second Conditional
Second Conditional sentences are a powerful tool for imagining and discussing unreal or unlikely outcomes. They allow us to explore hypothetical scenarios and their potential consequences.
Example 8:
If I could fly, I would visit all the world's wonders.
In this sentence, "I could fly" represents an unreal condition, and "I would visit all the world's wonders" portrays the hypothetical result, emphasizing the imaginative nature of Second Conditional sentences.
4. Difference Between First Conditional and Second Conditional
Now that we have a clear understanding of the grammar and structure of both First Conditional and Second Conditional sentences, let's explore the key differences between these two conditional types.
4. 1. Nature of Conditions
First Conditional: The conditions in First Conditional sentences are real, likely, and expected to occur. They are often based on present facts or situations, and the results are projected into the future with a high degree of certainty.
Example: If you water the plants, they will grow.
In this First Conditional sentence, the condition (watering the plants) is a real and likely action, and the result (the plants will grow) is expected to happen.
Second Conditional: The conditions in Second Conditional sentences are unreal, hypothetical, or contrary to fact. They often involve imaginative or unlikely scenarios that are not based on current reality.
Example: If I were a superhero, I would save the world.
In this Second Conditional sentence, the condition (being a superhero) is unreal and contrary to fact, and the result (saving the world) is a hypothetical outcome.
4. 2. Verb Forms
First Conditional: In First Conditional sentences, the "if" clause is in the Present Simple tense, and the main clause uses "will" followed by the base form of the verb to indicate the future tense.
Example: If she calls me, I will answer the phone.
Here, "calls" (Present Simple) is used in the "if" clause, and "will answer" (Future Simple) is used in the main clause.
Second Conditional: In Second Conditional sentences, the "if" clause is in the Past Simple tense, and the main clause uses "would" followed by the base form of the verb to convey the hypothetical or unreal result.
Example: If I won the lottery, I would travel the world.
In this Second Conditional sentence, "won" (Past Simple) is used in the "if" clause, and "would travel" (with "would" + base form) is used in the main clause.
4. 3. Certainty vs. Improbability
First Conditional: First Conditional sentences express a high degree of certainty regarding the condition and its likely result. They emphasize the real-world connection between the condition and the consequence.
Example: If you study hard, you will pass the exam.
This First Conditional sentence conveys the expectation that studying hard will lead to passing the exam.
Second Conditional: Second Conditional sentences emphasize the improbability or unreality of the condition and its hypothetical result. They invite imaginative exploration of unlikely scenarios.
Example: If I were a famous actor, I would live in a mansion.
In this Second Conditional sentence, the unreal condition (being a famous actor) leads to the hypothetical result (living in a mansion).
4. 4. Real-Life Applications
First Conditional: First Conditional sentences are commonly used in everyday conversations to discuss future possibilities, make predictions, give advice, and outline expected consequences.
Example: If it rains tomorrow, we will postpone the picnic.
In this real-life scenario, the First Conditional helps in planning for the possibility of rain.
Second Conditional: Second Conditional sentences are employed in hypothetical or creative contexts, such as imagining unreal situations, expressing desires, and exploring imaginative scenarios.
Example: If I could time travel, I would visit historical events.
This Second Conditional sentence engages in a hypothetical exploration of time travel.
Understanding these differences between First Conditional and Second Conditional is essential for learners to use them effectively in various contexts.
5. How to Identify First Conditional and Second Conditional
Identifying whether a sentence is in First Conditional or Second Conditional is relatively straightforward once you grasp their distinctive characteristics. Here are key indicators to help you differentiate between the two:
5. 1. Indicators of First Conditional
Real and Likely Conditions: First Conditional sentences involve conditions that are real, likely, and expected to occur based on present facts or situations.
Example: If I finish my work early, I will go to the movie tonight.
In this sentence, "finish my work early" is a real and likely condition.
Present Simple in "If" Clause: Look for the use of the Present Simple tense in the "if" clause.
Example: If she arrives on time, we can start the meeting.
Here, "arrives" (Present Simple) is used in the "if" clause.
"Will" in Main Clause: Check for the presence of "will" followed by the base form of the verb in the main clause to indicate future tense.
Example: If they win the game, they will celebrate all night.
In this sentence, "will celebrate" (Future Simple) is used in the main clause.
5. 2. Indicators of Second Conditional
Unreal or Hypothetical Conditions: Second Conditional sentences involve conditions that are unreal, hypothetical, or contrary to fact. They often describe imaginative or unlikely scenarios.
Example: If I had a million dollars, I would buy a yacht.
In this sentence, "had a million dollars" is an unreal condition.
Past Simple in "If" Clause: Observe the use of the Past Simple tense in the "if" clause.
Example: If he studied harder, he would pass the exam.
Here, "studied" (Past Simple) is used in the "if" clause.
"Would" in Main Clause: Look for the use of "would" followed by the base form of the verb in the main clause to indicate a hypothetical or unreal result.
Example: If I could fly, I would visit every country.
In this sentence, "would visit" (with "would" + base form) is used in the main clause.
By paying attention to these indicators, you can identify whether a sentence is in First Conditional or Second Conditional, enabling you to comprehend and use these conditionals effectively.
6. Forming First Conditional and Second Conditional Sentences
Now that we have explored the structure and differences between First Conditional and Second Conditional sentences, let's practice forming sentences in each of these conditionals. We will provide examples for various scenarios to illustrate the practical application of these conditionals in real-life situations.
6. 1. Forming First Conditional Sentences
Real and Likely Condition: Begin with a real and likely condition that is based on present facts or situations.
Example: If he studies hard, he will pass the test.
Here, the real and likely condition is "he studies hard."
Use Present Simple in "If" Clause: Construct the "if" clause using the Present Simple tense to introduce the condition.
Example: If she arrives on time, we can start the meeting.
In this sentence, "arrives" (Present Simple) is used in the "if" clause.
Employ "Will" in Main Clause: In the main clause, use "will" followed by the base form of the verb to indicate the future tense and the expected result.
Example: If they win the game, they will celebrate all night.
In this example, "will celebrate" (Future Simple) is used in the main clause.
6. 2. Forming Second Conditional Sentences
Unreal or Hypothetical Condition: Begin with an unreal or hypothetical condition that is contrary to fact or imaginative.
Example: If I had a million dollars, I would buy a yacht.
In this sentence, the unreal condition is "I had a million dollars."
Use Past Simple in "If" Clause: Construct the "if" clause using the Past Simple tense to express the unreal or contrary-to-fact condition.
Example: If he studied harder, he would pass the exam.
Here, "studied" (Past Simple) is used in the "if" clause.
Employ "Would" in Main Clause: In the main clause, use "would" followed by the base form of the verb to indicate a hypothetical or unreal result.
Example: If I could fly, I would visit every country.
In this sentence, "would visit" (with "would" + base form) is used in the main clause.
By following these steps, you can effectively construct First Conditional and Second Conditional sentences for various situations, allowing you to communicate present conditions and future outcomes, as well as explore hypothetical scenarios and imaginative desires.
7. Real-Life Scenarios for First Conditional
First Conditional sentences are commonly used in everyday conversations to discuss real and likely future situations. They allow us to make predictions, give advice, and plan for expected outcomes. Let's explore some real-life scenarios where First Conditional is applicable:
Scenario 1: Making Plans
Situation: You and your friends are planning a picnic for the weekend, but the weather forecast predicts rain. You need to decide what to do based on the weather condition.
First Conditional Sentence: "If it rains tomorrow, we will postpone the picnic."
In this scenario, the First Conditional is used to make plans contingent upon the real and likely condition of rain. The result (postponing the picnic) is expected if the condition (rain) occurs.
Scenario 2: Giving Advice
Situation: Your younger sibling is preparing for a crucial exam, and you want to offer advice on how to succeed.
First Conditional Sentence: "If you study hard, you will pass the exam."
Here, you are providing advice based on the real and likely condition of studying hard leading to success in the exam. The result (passing the exam) is predicted if the condition (studying hard) is met.
Scenario 3: Predicting Outcomes
Situation: You are discussing a soccer match with your friends, and you want to predict the result based on the current performance of the teams.
First Conditional Sentence: "If they continue to play this well, they will win the championship."
In this conversation, the First Conditional is employed to predict a future outcome (winning the championship) based on the real and likely condition (continuing to play well) of the teams.
Scenario 4: Planning for a Business Trip
Situation: Your colleague is planning a business trip and is concerned about the flight schedule. You want to reassure them about the timing of the flight.
First Conditional Sentence: "If your flight departs at 10 AM, you will have enough time for your meeting."
Here, the First Conditional is used to reassure your colleague by stating that they will have enough time for the meeting if the real and likely condition (the flight departing at 10 AM) is met.
In these real-life scenarios, the First Conditional is applied to discuss future possibilities, offer advice, make predictions, and plan for expected outcomes based on present conditions.
8. Real-Life Scenarios for Second Conditional
Second Conditional sentences, in contrast, are employed to explore hypothetical or unreal situations and their potential outcomes. They invite imaginative thinking and allow us to express desires, dream, and speculate about unlikely scenarios. Let's delve into some real-life scenarios where Second Conditional is applicable:
Scenario 1: Expressing Desires
Situation: You are discussing your dream vacation with a friend, and you want to express your desires and what you would do if you had the opportunity.
Second Conditional Sentence: "If I could go anywhere, I would visit the Maldives."
In this scenario, the Second Conditional is used to express a desire (visiting the Maldives) that is based on an unreal condition (being able to go anywhere).
Scenario 2: Imagining Possibilities
Situation: You are watching a science fiction movie with your family, and you want to discuss the incredible inventions portrayed in the film.
Second Conditional Sentence: "If those gadgets existed in real life, we would have so much fun!"
Here, the Second Conditional is applied to imagine the possibilities and express the fun that could be had if the unreal condition (the gadgets existing in real life) were met.
Scenario 3: Speculating about Career Choices
Situation: You are having a conversation with a friend who is considering various career options, including becoming an astronaut.
Second Conditional Sentence: "If I were you, I would explore the astronaut career path."
In this discussion, the Second Conditional is used to speculate about a hypothetical scenario (being in your friend's position) and offer advice based on that unreal condition.
Scenario 4: Dreaming of Adventures
Situation: You and your partner are planning your future together, and you want to share your adventurous dreams.
Second Conditional Sentence: "If we won the lottery, we would travel the world."
Here, the Second Conditional is employed to express a dream (traveling the world) that is associated with an unreal condition (winning the lottery).
These real-life scenarios demonstrate how Second Conditional sentences are used to explore imaginative and unlikely situations, express desires, dream, and speculate about hypothetical scenarios that may not align with current reality.
9. Conclusion:
Understanding when to use First Conditional and Second Conditional in conversations and written communication enriches your ability to convey present conditions, predict future outcomes, offer advice, express desires, and engage in creative thinking. Mastering these conditionals empowers you to navigate both real and unreal worlds with confidence and clarity.
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