grammar · neutral
If + present perfect, can + V
Use this when a past action is completed and its present result allows the main clause action (common for permission or instructions).
Examples
“If you have submitted the form, you can close this tab.”
“If she has finished her shift, she can go home now.”
“If students have read the reading, they can answer the questions.”
Band 8 sentence
“If students have completed the preparatory reading, they can participate more actively in the seminar.”
Common mistakes
If you finished the report, you can go home.→If you have finished the report, you can go home.
If he already returned, we will start.→If he has already returned, we can start.
Say it for a higher band
5If + past simple, can + V→6If + present simple, can + V→7+If + present perfect, can + V
Easily confused
If + present simple, can + V
“If you finish the assignment, you can hand it in tomorrow.”
Related words
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In Conditionals
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