Good writing requires that one sometimes use "were" instead of "was" after "if," "as if," "as though," or "wish" in a statement. In this context, match the guidelines (in the left column) with the corresponding conditions (in the right column). Use "were" instead of "was." Use "were" instead of "was." drop zone empty. Avoid substituting "were" for "was." Avoid substituting "were" for "was." drop zone empty. When the statement conveys something that is highly doubtful or impossible or something contrary to fact or simply not true When the statement is true or could be true