What Will Happen?
Zero Conditional
Use the zero conditional if an action always occurs as the result of another action. The zero conditional is used to express conditions that are always true.
Example:
The loan is on consignment if the credit score is reported above 650.
If you want a proper solution, know the debt-to-income ratio.
The present simple is used in both the 'if' clause and the result clause.
'If' clause - present simple + , + result clause - present simple
The loan is on consignment if the credit score is reported above 650.
If you want a proper solution, know the debt-to-income ratio.
Do not use a comma, when placing the result clause first.
The branch manager approves loans on consignment if they are attached to their individual credit reports.
First Conditional
Use the first, or 'real', conditional if an action will occur if something happens. The first conditional is used when a result is realistically possible.
'If' clause - present simple + , + result clause - future with will
If the start-up costs aren't too overwhelming, we might consider starting our own business.
The customer will always have to pay a hefty fee if they have a bounced check.
Do not use a comma, when placing the result clause first.
The credit depart will object if other departments do not.
'Unless' is also used in the first conditional to mean 'if not'.
If he doesn't come soon, we won't go to lunch = Unless he comes, we won't go to lunch.
Use of 'May' and 'Might' in the First Conditional
When a future result is not certain based on a condition, use 'may' or 'might'.
'If' clause - present simple + , + result clause - 'may / might' + verb
We will not disturb you if you give the details of itemized statements.
If the market collapses we might have to be prepared to take a financial loss.