Mixed Conditionals

Exercises

Explanation

Mixed Conditionals — B2 Explanation

1. When do we use mixed conditionals?

We use mixed conditionals when:

• a past decision continues to influence the present, or

• a current situation explains why something did not happen in the past

In both cases, the situation described is unreal or hypothetical.

These structures help us reflect, explain regrets, or imagine alternative life paths in a precise and natural way.

2. Past condition → present result

(Third Conditional condition + Second Conditional result)

Form: If + past perfect, would / could / might + base verb

Meaning

A situation in the past did not happen, and this absence affects the present.

Examples:

• If I had accepted that internship, I would have a lot more experience now.
  (I didn’t accept it, so I don’t have that experience.)

• If she had moved abroad earlier, she could speak several languages today.

• If we had followed the map, we wouldn’t be lost now.

This type is often used to express regret, reflection, or missed opportunities.

3. Present condition → past result

(Second Conditional condition + Third Conditional result)

Form: If + past simple, would / could / might + have + past participle

Meaning

A current situation or limitation explains why something failed to happen in the past.

Examples:

• If I were more organised, I would have finished the project on time.

• If he wasn’t afraid of public speaking, he would have given the presentation himself.

• If they lived in the city, they could have attended the conference last week.

This structure highlights how a stable present situation influenced a past outcome.

4. Key principles to remember

The condition is always unreal
The time frames must be different
Tense choice depends on meaning, not on fixed formulas
The result shows a logical consequence of the condition

5. Common learner mistakes

Using the same time reference in both clauses
Forgetting have in past result constructions
Choosing verb forms without checking the timeline

Correct thinking:

• Is the cause in the past or present?

• Is the result now or before?

6. Structure overview