Conditional Tenses for the SAT (+ Mixing Tenses)


Conditional tenses

This tense has recently become important again in the SAT (It was not tested for more than 3 years). The word “If” can start a conditional tense, and there are 3 types of conditional tense, each following a unique rule (we will only discuss the ones that are relevant for the test.) Type 1 is used to express a condition that is very likely to happen If I pass the test, I will have a party.
If I don’t eat lunch, I get hungry.
*we use present tense and future tense for Type 1 Type 2 is used to express a condition that is unlikely or hypothetical.
*this tense is very unique and has recently re-emerged in the SAT. In type 2 sentences, WERE is used for both singular and plural subjects.
If I were you, I would go home. (I am not you) If he were here, he would tell you to stop. (He is not here)

Mixing Tenses Mixing tenses is definitely one of the most difficult concepts in any grammar test as most students are taught to remain in the same tense when writing an essay. While this concept is not tested often, understand that it is perfectly acceptable to mix tenses as long as it is correctly done. I think he likes her.

(He currently likes her.)

I think he liked her.

(He used to like her, but not anymore.)

I think he will like her.

(He will like her in the future.)

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