If Clauses in Real Situations (cláusulas con “si” en situaciones reales)

First, if necessary, refresh your memory about the following points:

  1. El tiempo presente
  2. El tiempo futuro

Form

Clause with “si” in the PRESENT ... ... Main clause in the FUTURE
Si practico mucho ...
If I practice a lot ...		 ... aprenderé a hablar el español muy bien.
... I will learn to speak Spanish very well.
Si no te preparas antes de clase ...
If you do not prepare before class ...		 ... no podrás participar en la clase.
... you will not be able to participate in class.
Si llueve esta tarde ...
If it rains this afternoon ...		 ... no iremos al concierto.
... we will not go to the concert.

Note: The order of the two clauses can be reversed, but “si” always introduces the present tense:

Ejemplo(s):
No iremos al concierto si llueve esta tarde.

Uses of the “Si” Clause in Real Situations

This structure is used to convey that an action/consequence/result will take place in the future according to a real condition — If X then Y will occur. It is important to emphasize that this construction is used in situations that are likely to occur. For example, “If it rains this afternoon” (completely possible) vs. “If I win a million dollars today” (not likely). This construction would only be used in the first case.