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4. Conditionals of Type 3 (Time: Past)

These are conditionals which indicate a result which was never achieved, because
the condition in the if-clause was not fulfilled.

The basic form of such conditional sentences is:

If + clause in the past perfect + clause in the simple future perfect in the
past, and the structure of the second clause is:

Subject + should/would/could/might + have + the past participle of the
main verb + the rest of the clause.

Note that, once again, the modal auxiliary has to be one of the past tense forms
should, would, could or might.

The two examples in the last case now become—
• If they had opened their eyes, they would have seen that they had a lot to be
grateful for. (but, they didn’t open their eyes)

• If you had made an effort, we might have been able to solve the problem. (but,
you didn’t make any effort)

The if in the if-clause can be dropped in this type of conditional. For example,
• Had they opened their eyes, they would have seen that they had a lot to be
grateful for.

(They didn’t open their eyes, therefore, they didn’t see that they had a lot to be
grateful for.)

A. Complete the following conditional sentences of Type 1 by putting the correct

form of the verbs.

1. If you (send) this letter now, she (receive)
it tomorrow.

2. If Ramesh (do) this test, it (boost)
his confidence.

3. If the maid (find) your purse, she (give) it
back to you.

4. Preeti (go) swimming if she (have) time in
the evening.

5. Simi (go) to Lucknow next week if she (get) a
cheap flight.

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