Making the Zero Conditional

The Zero conditional is there to allow you to, for example, give directions, for instructions, and for things that are generally true.

How to make the zero conditional

IF + Present Simple                     Present Simple

If you press the button                 the computer starts.

If you turn right at the corner     you can see the shop.

TRY THE FREE CAMBRIDGE ENGLISH TEST

How do I use the Zero conditional?

When using the Zero conditional, it is important to remember that the IF has the same meaning as WHEN.

So, for example, when you are giving instructions:

  1. If you leave the freezer door open, the ice melts.
  2. If you select reverse gear, the car moves
  3. If you eat too much, you get fat.

As with conditionals, we can also reverse the sentence:

Present Simple                                 IF + Present Simple

For example:

  1. You arrive at the school gates, if you turn right at the end of the street.
  2. A red light shows, if you look

 

Zero conditionals for telling general truths

The zero conditional can also be used for telling general truths:

  1. You become tired, if you walk all day.
  2. If you touch a hot oven, your fingers get
  3. Water boils if it reaches 100 degrees.