Query on sentence Correction

Question

Hello SME,

My understanding about application of past perfect tense in Cause & Effect type sentence as follows-
Since Casue happen first - Had + V3
Effect later- past tense

But If the Effect/ Result is in - Present Perfect then Cause must be in Past tense.

Please advise if above is correct understanding and can be applied to all case.

CrackverbalGMAT · Answer

Hi Vicky,

I assume you mean if x happens, then y happens by cause and effect sequence.

Let’s understand a little bit of conditional tense here. There are different types of conditional sentences in English.

If you are talking about a universal fact or general truth, both the if-clause and the then-clause should be in the simple present tense.

Ex- When/If you heat water at 100 degrees Celcius, it boils

If you’re talking about a specific truth (expressing a future scenario), the if clause should be in the present tense, and the then (effect) clause, should be in simple future tense (will)

If you work hard, you will succeed.

If you’re talking about a hypothetical scenario, the if clause will be in the simple past tense and the then clause will be in the past form of will- would.

If I were you, I would probably meet a doctor.
If I won the lottery, I would buy a Porsche

If you’re talking about something that has happened in the past (revisiting the past), the if clause will be in the past perfect tense (had+v3), and the effect, will be in the future perfect tense (would have)

If I had prepared for the GMAT, I would have scored a 760.
If I had had money, I would have bought a car.

Hope this helps
Good luck with your preparation

Vishnupriya
GMAT Verbal SME

Vishnupriya GMAT Verbal SME

Query on sentence Correction

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