Conditional 'If' Clauses (Si Clauses)

In Spanish, 'si' (if) clauses set up conditions. They are essential for talking about possibilities, from likely plans to imaginary scenarios. This drill focuses on the most common type you'll see in stories: real or likely conditions.

The Main Rule: Likely Conditions

This structure is used for situations that are realistic or very likely to happen. It follows a simple pattern: the condition is in the present, and the result is in the future, present, or is a command.

1. Si + Present Indicative, ... Future Simple This is the most classic structure for talking about a likely future outcome.

• Structure: Si + [present tense] , [future tense]
• Example: Si **llueve** mañana, **veremos** una película en casa. (If it rains tomorrow, we will watch a movie at home.)

2. Si + Present Indicative, ... Present Indicative This is used for habits, routines, or scientific facts—things that are always true when the condition is met.

• Structure: Si + [present tense] , [present tense]
• Example: Si **mezclas** azul y amarillo, **obtienes** verde. (If you mix blue and yellow, you get green.)

3. Si + Present Indicative, ... Imperative (Command) This is used to give an instruction or command that depends on a condition.

• Structure: Si + [present tense] , [command form]
• Example: Si **tienes** tiempo, **llámame**. (If you have time, call me.)

Pro-Tip: The order of the clauses can be flipped without changing the meaning: Te llamaré si tengo tiempo. Notice the comma is not needed when the 'si' clause comes second.

A Note on Other 'If' Clauses

As you read more complex stories, you will encounter other types of 'if' clauses for unlikely or impossible situations (e.g., Si yo fuera rico... - If I were rich...). They use more advanced tenses like the imperfect subjunctive. For now, focus on mastering the likely conditions above. Recognizing this common pattern is the first and most important step!