Eduqo
English Grammar›Ch 8: Sentence Structures›Conditional Sentences
Master Zero, First, Second, Third & Mixed Conditionals for Top Exams
Conditional sentences combine a condition clause with a main clause. Correct tense pairing between if-clause and main clause is the key to scoring in SSC, Railway, and Defence exams.
Memory Hooks
| Type | If Clause | Main Clause |
|---|---|---|
| Zero | Present Simple | Present Simple |
| First | Present Simple | Future / Modal + V1 |
| Second | Past Simple | Would + V1 |
| Third | Had + V3 | Would have + V3 |
Zero Type
(Universal Truth)
Universal Truth
If you heat ice, it melts.
First Type
(Real Possibility)
Real Possibility
If you work hard, you will pass.
Second Type
(Imaginary Wish)
Imaginary Wish
If I were a bird, I would fly.
Third Type
(Past Regret)
Past Regret
If you had run, you would have won.
Unless you will not study...Unless you study...
Never use 'not' or modal 'will/would' after unless.
If I was you, I would accept.If I were you, I would accept.
Use 'were' for all subjects in unreal conditional sentences.
If he would come, I would go.If he came, I would go.
Never use 'would' in the if-clause of second conditional.
Q1.If she _____ hard, she would have cleared the exam.
Q2.Unless you _____ your speed, you cannot crack the test.