first conditional

The first conditional talks about something that may happen in the future, and its result. The if part takes the present simple. The other part takes will + verb.

The if part can come first or second. When it comes first, put a comma after it.

Won't and other words

In the negative, use won't (will not). Instead of will, the result can also be can, might, an order, or going to.

Unless

Unless means if … not.

First or zero conditional

The first conditional is about one possible event in the future. For things that are always true, use the present in both parts (the zero conditional).

Common mistakes

The if part never takes will, even when it talks about the future.

• × If it will rain, we'll stay at home. → If it rains, we'll stay at home.
• × If I will see her, I'll tell her. → If I see her, I'll tell her.
• × If she comes, she help us. → If she comes, she'll help us.