IF(done)

If I were you, I would + (verb)

Here you are giving an example of what decision YOU would do given the

circumstances. This can be in past tense or in a conditional present.

Here are some examples:

"If I were you, I would enjoy my vacation."

"If I were you, I would explain what happened."

"If I were you, I would continue working until it is done."

"If I were you, I would book my reservations now."

"If I were you, I would answer the question."

By adding 'have' after the word 'would' you are talking about

something in the past tense.

Here are some examples:

"If I were you, I would have enjoyed my vacation."

"If I were you, I would have explained what happened."

"If I were you, I would have continued working until it was done."

"If I were you, I would have booked my reservations now."

"If I were you, I would have answered the question."

An if only clause expresses a wish – one that you are doubtful about

actually happening.

 The result clause is optional and is separate. It is more emphatic than I wish…

I WISH…

If only  I had more time!   I could relax.

If only  you would clean up your room. You would find your lost jeans.

If only I had some Zing window cleaner.

If only  I could please my mother-in-law.

If only  you were here!

If only  he hadn't told his mother everything.