Zero Conditional

Zero Conditional – Exercises

These exercises focus on Zero Conditional

What is the Zero Conditional?

The Zero Conditional is used to describe situations where one action always leads to another. These are facts, rules, or habits—not possibilities or future plans.

Structure of the Zero Conditional

The basic structure is:
If + present simple, present simple

Full example: If water reaches 100°C, it boils.
This means that boiling is a fact when water reaches this temperature.

Rules for Using the Zero Conditional

1. Both Clauses in Present Simple
   Both the "if" clause and the main clause use the present simple tense.
   Example: If you press this button, the machine stops.

2. No Will, Would, or Might
   The Zero Conditional talks about facts, not predictions.
   Incorrect: If you heat ice, it will melt.
   Correct: If you heat ice, it melts.

3. Commas

• Use a comma when the "if" clause comes first: If you exercise daily, you feel healthier.

• No comma is needed if the result comes first: You feel healthier if you exercise daily.

Everyday Uses

1. Talking about scientific facts:
   If you mix red and blue, you get purple.

2. Giving instructions or rules:
   If the alarm rings, leave the building immediately.

3. Describing habits:
   If I drink coffee at night, I can’t sleep.

Common Errors with the Zero Conditional

1. Using future tense:
   Incorrect: If you don’t water plants, they will die.
   Correct: If you don’t water plants, they die.

2. Using past tense:
   Incorrect: If I ate too much, I feel sick.
   Correct: If I eat too much, I feel sick.

3. Confusing it with other conditionals:

• Zero Conditional is for general facts: If it rains, the ground gets wet.

• First Conditional is for future possibilities: If it rains, I will stay home.

FAQ about the Zero Conditional

What is the difference between the Zero and First Conditional?

• Zero Conditional: General truths or habits.
  Example: If you touch fire, it burns.

• First Conditional: Possible future situations.
  Example: If you touch fire, you will get burned.

Can I use "when" instead of "if"?

Yes, "when" works in Zero Conditional because it describes things that always happen.
Example: When water freezes, it turns to ice.

Can I use other tenses in the Zero Conditional?

No, both clauses must be in the present simple tense.

Is the Zero Conditional formal?

No, it is commonly used in both formal and informal conversations to describe facts or habits.

Can I use “unless” in the Zero Conditional?

Yes! “Unless” means “if not.”
Example: Plants die unless you water them.