First Conditional: Imperative in Result Clause

This pattern connects a possible future to an action. The first part is the condition. This is the if clause. It describes something that might happen. The second part is the result. But here, the result is a command. We call this an imperative. Usually, conditionals use will for predictions. But sometimes, we don't want to predict. We want to tell someone what to do. If the condition comes true, the command applies. It is like a tiny contract. "If this happens, do that." It is direct and very clear. Even native speakers love this for its simplicity. You don't need to guess the result. The speaker is telling you exactly what to do.

1. 1Building this sentence is like building a LEGO set. Follow these simple steps:
2. 2Start with the word if to set the condition.
3. 3Add a subject and a present simple verb.
4. 4Use a comma if the if clause comes first.
5. 5Use the base form of the verb for the command.
6. 6Example: If it rains (Condition) + , + take an umbrella (Command).
7. 7You can also flip the sentence around.
8. 8Example: Take an umbrella if it rains.
9. 9Notice that the comma disappears when if is in the middle. It acts like the glue for the sentence. For negative commands, just add don't.
10. 10Example: If you are tired, don't drive.
11. 11It is that easy! No complex future tenses are needed here.

Use this when giving instructions to someone. Think about a recipe or a manual. If the water boils, add the pasta. This is clear and helpful.

Use it for giving advice to friends. If you feel sick, see a doctor. It sounds more direct than using should.

Use it for warnings or safety rules. If there is a fire, use the stairs. This is not the time for long sentences!

Use it for social invitations or offers. If you have time, call me later. It makes the offer feel very natural.

Use it in job interviews or work settings. If you have questions, please ask me. It shows you are organized and helpful.

Don't use this for things you cannot control. You cannot command the weather to change. If it is sunny, be hot makes no sense. The imperative is for human actions.

Don't use it for general facts or science. That is for the Zero Conditional. If you heat ice, it melts is a fact. If you heat ice, watch it melt is a command. See the difference?

Don't use it if you want to be very polite. Sometimes a command is too strong. In a fancy restaurant, don't say If I want water, bring it. That might get you some funny looks! Use could you or please instead.

One big mistake is using will in the if clause. If you will see him, tell him is wrong. Always use the present simple after if.

Another mistake is using will in the command part. If you are late, you will call me is a prediction. If you are late, call me is a direct instruction.

Forgetting the comma is a classic error. If you start with if, you need that pause. It helps the reader breathe.

Using the wrong verb form for the command is common. Don't say If you go, calling me. Use the base form: call.

Don't worry, even the best learners trip up here. Just keep practicing!

Compare this to the standard First Conditional. If it rains, I will stay home. This is a statement about my future. Now look at our pattern. If it rains, stay home. This is me telling YOU what to do.

Compare it to the Zero Conditional. If you touch fire, you get burned. This is a universal truth. If you touch fire, put ice on it. This is a specific instruction for a situation.

One is about what happens. The other is about what to do. It is the difference between a map and a guide. Both are useful, but they have different jobs.