What Would Happen?
Second Conditional
The second, or 'unreal', conditional is used for improbable situations that are purely hypothetical. Use the second conditional when imagining various situations.
'If' clause - past simple + , + result clause - would + verb (conditional tense)
Examples of Unreal Situations
I would invest in the agricultural company if I thought the baseline projections were accurate.
I would focus on grassroots connections and social media if I were running the campaign.
I would express my goodwill if I spoke their language.
I would reset what's considered best practices if I could figure them out.
Exception!
'Were' is often used for all subjects in the second conditional.
Example:
I would outsource to a best-in-class business if I were the marketing manager.
I would focus on grassroots connections and social media if I were running the campaign.
Differences Between First and Second Conditional
The choice between the first or second conditional is often based on the probability of a given situation. If something is truly possible, choose the first conditional.
Example:
We will ignore the consultant if she doesn't tell us what we want to hear.
He will press charges if Sam uncovers a suspect through the investigation and documentation of the case.
If something is not very possible or improbable, choose the second conditional.
Example:
Jason wouldn't agree to that behavioral objective if you gave him a choice.
I would reset what's considered best practices if I could figure them out.
Do not use a comma, when placing the result clause first.
She would be more concerned with reaching the benchmark if she thought it was a realistic goal.
George would inform the beneficiary if he arrived for the reading of the will.