The first conditional
We use the first type of conditional sentences when the condition is real and the situation we are talking about is not imaginary.
To build the first type of conditional sentences:
- we put the verb in the "if"-part into the present simple,
- in the second part, which is the result of the condition, we use the future simple.
If {present simple}, then {future simple}
Examples
If you practise a lot, you will learn the language quickly. "practise" = condition, "will learn" = result
If it rains, we will stay at home. "rains" = condition, "will stay" = result
If I get a raise, I will earn more. "get" = condition, "will earn" = result
We won't wait for Tom if he is late. "is" = condition, "won't wait" = result
We will go to the Burger King if we don't find a McDonald's. "don't find" = condition, "will go" = result
Alice will visit us if she is in Warsaw. "is" = condition, "will visit" = result
Notice that we can begin the sentence either with the condition or with the result. It doesn't affect the verb tenses.