In the hypothetical setence, can “was” be used?

Question

However, if you tried to copy the original rather than your imaginary drawing, you might find your drawing now was a little better.

How come it is possible to use was instead of be or is? Because my knowledge tells me that the main clause of hypothetical sentence should have the form of would + root verb.

Answer 1

The use of the imperfect (was) in this type of construction often appears in common speech. You are correct that it should be the conditional would + verb, i.e. would be.