Really understand the first conditional and its variations.

   • The key to conditional sentences and their...   The zero conditional.
The first conditional is a structure that allows us to talk about future possibilities based on a present condition. This structure is immensely useful in expressing cause and effect relationships.
Let's start with the basic structure: If + present simple, will + base verb. For example, ‘If I see him, I will tell him’. This format helps us express a likely or possible outcome in the future based on a specific condition in the present.
Now, let's add some spice to our conditional sentences by exploring different tenses. The first conditional isn't limited to just the present simple. We can use other tenses to convey different shades of meaning.
• Present Continuous: ‘If she is studying now, she is going to do well in the exam’. This emphasizes an action happening in the present leading to a future result.
• Present Perfect: ‘If they have finished their homework, they can join us for dinner’. Here, the completion of an action in the present has a possible result in the future.
• Modal verbs 'would' and 'should': ‘If he studies harder, he should pass the test’. Or ‘If it rained, we would stay indoors’. These verbs suggest a conditional outcome in a more tentative or hypothetical manner.
Now, you might be wondering why we don't use "will" in the condition clause. Look at this sentence, spoken by a hotel receptionist:
‘Mr. Smith, if you will come this way, I’ll show you to your room’.
This is a polite form and requires Mr. Smith to be willing to follow the receptionist. ‘Will’ is not an auxiliary verb indicating the future here, it is a modal verb and requires willingness from Mr. Smith. I explain more about this trap in the video.
If you would like more help with your English grammar, please subscribe to my channel and ring that bell! Thanks.