What Would Happen?
Second Conditional
The second, or 'unreal', conditional is used for improbable situations that are purely hypothetical. Use the second conditional when imagining various situations.
'If' clause - past simple + , + result clause - would + verb (conditional tense)
Examples of Unreal Situations
I would fulfill the customer's requirements much faster if I were better equipped technologically.
Arthur would not be happy if you demanded earnest money from him.
How would you spend your additional dividend earnings if all capital gains taxes were repealed?
What would you do if the boss were to ask you to shred the minutes of a meeting?
Exception!
'Were' is often used for all subjects in the second conditional.
Example:
I would hire Jack if I were sure the closing costs were low.
She would not correspond with her if she were not a true friend.
Differences Between First and Second Conditional
The choice between the first or second conditional is often based on the probability of a given situation. If something is truly possible, choose the first conditional.
Example:
What will happen to me if I overdraw my checking account?
He will take out a loan if the credit department is open until 10PM.
If something is not very possible or improbable, choose the second conditional.
Example:
I would fulfill the customer's requirements much faster if I were better equipped technologically.
I would dispute the closing balance fee if I ever needed to end my relationship with the bank.
Do not use a comma, when placing the result clause first.
The gift card would actually be worth something if you got it for free.
I would purchase those securities if I had a letter of credit.