Conditional sentences talk about things that might happen, or might have happened. Conditional sentences all have a dependent "if" clause and a main clause. When the if clause comes first, it is followed by a comma. "Then" is usually omitted before the main clause, but it is always implied.
If I'm bored, (then) I go to the mall.
If I was bored, (then) I'd go to the mall.
As the sentences above show, "If I'm bored" is the "if" clause, and "I go to the mall" is the main clause.
When the main clause is first, there is no comma and then is not used. The meaning is the same.
I go to the mall if I'm bored.
I'd go to the mall if I was bored.
In conditional sentences, either clause or both clauses can be negative.
If I'm not bored, I stay home.
If I'm not bored, I won't go to the mall.
Unlock full access by logging in. Registered users can explore the entire lesson and more.