In English, conditionals help us describe something that might have or might happen. Similar to the Zero and 1st conditionals, we need to know what verb tenses to use with the 2nd and 3rd conditionals.[1]https://www.test-english.com/explanation/b2/first-second-third-conditionals/
2nd Conditional
The 2nd conditional is used to describe hypothetical situations in the present or future.
If + past simple or past continuous verb + would/could/might + infinitive/be –ing
For example:
- If I studied, I would not be taking the retest right now. Too bad.
- If it was raining, the crops would be growing.
- If she hadn’t talked to me, I might not be talking with you right now.
When the conditional clause comes after the main phrase you don’t need to use a comma.
For example:
- I would not be taking the retest right now if I studied.
- The crops would be growing if it was raining.
- I might not be talking with you right now if she hadn’t talked to me.
3rd Conditional
The 3rd conditionals are used to describe hypothetical situations in the past.
If + past perfect + would/could/might + have + past participle
For example:
- Too bad, if you had helped us, we would have finished on time.
- If I had studied, I would have passed the test.
- If you had been nicer, I would have helped you.
When the conditional clause comes after the main phrase you don’t need to use a comma.
For example:
- We would have finished on time if you had helped us.
- I would have passed the test if I had studied.
- I would have helped you if you had been nicer.
Example Exercises
Fill in the blanks with the correct conjugations of the 2nd or 3rd conditionals.
References