Real conditions (si + present)
si + present indicative. The main clause is the future, an imperative (command form), or the present for a habit. Never a subjunctive (the verb form for wishes and doubts) after si.
Examples
- Si llueve, no saldré.If it rains, I will not go out.
- Si tienes tiempo, llámame.If you have time, call me.
- Si llueve, las calles se mojan.If it rains, the streets get wet.
How it works
A real condition uses the present indicative after si. The subjunctive (the verb form for wishes and doubts: llueva, tengas) does not go there.
One occasion
future in the main clause:
A request
imperative (command form) in the main clause:
A habit
present in both clauses:
Traps
- Si llueva, no saldré. ❌ → Si llueve, no saldré. - Si lloverá, no salgo. ❌ → Si llueve, no saldré. The unreal condition (si + imperfect subjunctive) is a different lesson.
What you'll practise
1. si + present, main clause future
One occasion that may happen: si + present indicative, and the future in the main clause. Not the subjunctive (the verb form for wishes and doubts: llueva), and not the future, after si.
- Si estudias, aprenderás.If you study, you will learn.
2. si + present, imperative or habit
A request uses the imperative (command form) in the main clause (Si tienes tiempo, llámame). A habit uses the present in both clauses. si still takes the indicative.
- Si tienes tiempo, llámame.If you have time, call me.
Practise it until it sticks
Short drills built on these 2 skills, with instant feedback on every answer. Free to start.