Usage If clause Main clause
ZERO General Truths Simple Present Simple present
Type 1 Possible Condition; Probable Result Simple Present Simple Future
ZERO CONDITIONAL
We use the zero conditional when talking about a real and possible situation that is now or always. It is also often used to talk about general truths. Simple present tense is used in both the if and and main clause. In a zero conditional sentence, “if” and “when” can be used interchangeably without changing the meaning of the sentence.
Examples:
If clause Main Clause
If you sneeze you blink your eyes.
If it snows it gets really cold.
If it’s sunny she doesn’t like going out.
TYPE 1 CONDITIONAL
We use type 1 conditional to talk about a real situation in the present or future. It is used talk about a possible condition and its probable result. In a Type 1 conditional sentence, simple present is used in the if clause, and simple future in the main clause.
Examples:
If clause Main Clause
If you don’t study, you will fail the exam.
If you don’t bring your umbrella, you won’t have something to use later.
If the sun shines, she will leave her clothes outside to dry.