If can be at the beginning of a sentence or in the middle:
In conversation, we often use the if-part of the sentence alone:
- Are you going to the concert? Yes, if I can get a ticket.
If you see Ann tomorrow ... etc:
After if, we use the present (not will). We say if you see ... ' (not if you will see):
- If you see Ann tomorrow, can you ask her to call me?
- If I'm late this evening, don't wait for me. (not if I will be).
- What shall we do if it rains? (not if it will rain).
- If I don't feel well tomorrow, I'll stay at home.
if and when:
If I go out = it is possible that I will go out, but I'm not sure:
- A: Are you going out later?
- B: Maybe. If I go out, I'll close the windows.
When I go out = I'm going out (for sure):
- A: Are you going out later?
- B: Yes, I am. When I go out, I'll close the windows.
Compare when and if:
- When I get home this evening, I'm going to have a shower.
- If I'm late this evening, don't wait for me. (not When I'm late).
- We're going to play tennis if it doesn't rain. (not when it doesn't rain).
Make the sentences beginning with if:
1. If you don't hurry, you'll be late.
2. If you pass the exam, you'll get a certificate.
3. If you fail the exam, you can do it again.
4. If you don't want this magazine, I'll throw it away.
5. If you want those pictures, you can have them.
6. If you're busy now, we can talk later.
7. If you're hungry, we can have lunch now.
8. If you need money, I can lend you some.
Use your own ideas to complete these sentences:
1. I’m going to the concert if can get a ticket.
2. If you don't hurry, you'll miss the train.
3. I don't want to disturb you if you're busy.
4. If you go to bed early tonight, you'll feel better in the morning.
5. Turn the TV off if you're not watching it.
6. Tina won't pass her exams if she doesn't study.
7. If I have time tomorrow, I'll go and see Chris.
8. We can go to the beach tomorrow if the weather is good.
9. I’ll be surprised if it rains today.
Make sentences use if or when:
1. If I'm late this evening, don't wait for me.
2. I'm going to do some shopping now. When I come back, we can have lunch.
3. I'm thinking going to see Tom. If I go, will you come with me?
4. If you don't want to go out tonight, we can stay at home.
5. Is it OK. if I close the window?
6. John is still at school. he leaves school, When he wants to go to college.
