If Else Statement In Python

If Else Statement In Python

12 Aug 2024
Beginner
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13 min read

Python If Else Statements: Conditional Statements

If-else statements or conditional statements are fundamental Python structures for making decisions based on a given condition. These statements are frequently used in organizations to develop sophisticated decision-making systems. They allow you to regulate the flow of your program, increasing its versatility and interactivity.

In this Python tutorial, we'll look at the if-else statement, covering what it is, how it works, and when to use it. We'll also look at the if-else statement in Python with examples. So, let's start by asking, "What is an if-else statement?"

What is an if-else statement?

  • Python's decision-making depends mainly on if-else expressions.
  • They define a structure for executing distinct code blocks based on whether a given condition is true or false.
  • Consider your program as a road with forks; if-else statements serve as those forks, directing the program's progress based on the conditions encountered.

For example, if you're developing a weather app, you could use an if-else expression to decide whether to suggest an umbrella. The requirement would be: "Is it raining?" If true, the code recommends bringing an umbrella; if false, it may suggest sunglasses.

Types of Control Flow in Python

  1. Python If Statement
  2. Python If Else Statement
  3. Python Nested If Statement
  4. Python Elif
  5. Ternary Statement | Short Hand If Else Statement

Python If Statement

The if statement is a basic decision-making expression. It determines whether a specific statement or block of statements will be executed.

Flowchart

Syntax

if condition:
    # code block to execute if condition is True
if condition: This line determines whether the given condition evaluates to True.
Code block: The code that should be executed if the condition is True is put within the if statement. The block must be indented.
Indentation is used to define the block of code that goes with the if statement. Python uses indentation instead of brackets ({}) to group statements together.

Example

age = 18

if age >= 18:
    print("You are an adult.")

Output

You are an adult.

Python If Statement

Explanation

In this example, the variable age has been set to 18. The if statement checks whether the age is higher than or equal to 18. Because the condition is true, it displays "You are an adult."

Python If Else Statement

  • The if statement itself indicates that if a condition is true, a block of statements will be executed.
  • However, if the condition is false, they will not. However, if we want to do anything else if the condition is false, we can use the else statement together with the if statement in Python to execute a block of code.

Flowchart

Syntax

if condition:
    # code block to execute if condition is True
else:
    # code block to execute if condition is False

Example

current_hour = 15

if current_hour < 12:
    print("Good morning!")
else:
    print("Good afternoon!")

Output

Good afternoon!

Python If Else Statement

Explanation

In this example, the code determines whether current_hour is smaller than 12. If true, it says, "Good morning!" Otherwise, it outputs "Good afternoon!" because the current_hour is 15.

Python Nested If Statement

A nested if statement is one that has an if statement within another if statement. This occurs when you need to filter a variable several times.
Flowchart

Syntax

if condition1:
    if condition2:
        # code block to execute if both condition1 and condition2 are True
    else:
        # code block to execute if condition1 is True but condition2 is False
else:
    # code block to execute if condition1 is False

Example

score = 85
has_passed_exam = True

if score >= 60:
    if has_passed_exam:
        print("Congratulations! You passed with a score of", score)
    else:
        print("You scored well but did not pass the exam.")
else:
    print("You did not pass. Try again.")

Output

Congratulations! You passed with a score of 85

Python Nested If Statement

Explanation

The code checks whether the score is 60 or greater. If true, it also checks if has_passed_exam is true. Because both conditions are met (score = 85 and has_passed_exam = True), it displays "Congratulations!" You passed with an 85. If the score was lower or has_passed_exam was False, a different message would be displayed.

Python Elif / if-else ladder

  • In this conditional statement, a user can select from a variety of options. The if statements are examined progressively, from top to bottom.
  • When a condition evaluates to True, the related block is executed, while the remaining conditions are skipped.
  • If none of the conditions hold, the last else block will be executed.
  • It's also called an if-else ladder.

Syntax

if condition1:
    # code block to execute if condition1 is True
elif condition2:
    # code block to execute if condition1 is False and condition2 is True
elif condition3:
    # code block to execute if condition1 and condition2 are False and condition3 is True
else:
    # code block to execute if none of the above conditions are True

Example

score = 78

if score >= 90:
    print("Grade: A")
elif 80 <= score < 90:
    print("Grade: B")
elif 70 <= score < 80:
    print("Grade: C")
elif 60 <= score < 70:
    print("Grade: D")
else:
    print("Grade: F")

Output

Grade: C

Python Elif / if-else ladder

Explanation

The code evaluates the score and assigns a grade based on predefined ranges. The score of 78 falls within the range of 70 <= score < 80, meeting the criterion for grade C. "Grade: C" is printed. The remaining prerequisites are bypassed because one has already been met.

Example

# Example performance rating
rating = 4.5

# Determine the appraisal feedback using an elif ladder
if rating >= 4.5:
    feedback = "Outstanding performance! Expect a significant raise and bonus."
elif rating >= 3.5:
    feedback = "Great job! You're doing well and can look forward to a good raise."
elif rating >= 2.5:
    feedback = "Satisfactory performance. There’s room for improvement, but you’re on the right track."
elif rating >= 1.5:
    feedback = "Needs improvement. Focus on developing your skills and meeting your goals."
else:
    feedback = "Unsatisfactory performance. Immediate improvement is required."

print(f"Your appraisal feedback: {feedback}")

Output

Your appraisal feedback: Outstanding performance! Expect a significant raise and bonus.

Explanation

The code uses an elif ladder to check the employee's performance rating. Because the rating is 4.5 and meets the first requirement (rating >= 4.5), the feedback is "Outstanding performance!" Expect a substantial raise and bonus. The application then prints the feedback.

Ternary Statement | Short Hand If Else Statement

A ternary statement, often known as shorthand if-else, is a compact way to express an if-else condition on a single line. It uses the syntax value_if_true if condition, else value_if_false. This statement checks the condition and returns one value if it is True and another if it is False.

Syntax

value_if_true if condition else value_if_false

Example

age = 16
status = "Adult" if age >= 18 else "Minor"
print(status)

Output

Minor

Explanation

In this example, the ternary statement determines whether the age is 18 or older. Because the age is 16, which is less than 18, the criterion is False, and the status is changed to "Minor". The print statement returns "Minor".
Summary
This Python tutorial provides an in-depth look into conditional statements, focusing on how if-else structures enable code decision-making by evaluating conditions and executing related blocks. It covers a variety of control flow forms, such as simple if statements, if-else for handling alternative outcomes, nested ifs for several layers of checks, and elif ladders for multiple conditions. The lesson also introduces the ternary statement, which allows for short, one-line conditional expressions and provides examples of practical uses such as grading, performance reviews, and generating personalized messages. Also, consider our Python Programming For Beginners Free Course for a better understanding of other Python concepts.

FAQs

Q1. What is the purpose of if-else in Python?

In Python, if-else statements are used to make decisions by executing different code blocks depending on whether a stated condition is true or false. They manage the flow of a program, letting it respond dynamically to changing inputs and conditions.

Q2. Is there a limit on if-else in Python?

Python does not have a strict limit on the amount of if-else statements you can employ. However, excessive nesting or an overly complex set of criteria can make code more difficult to comprehend and maintain. For clarity, complex logic should typically be refactored into functions or used with other control structures.

Q3. What is the alternative to if-else in Python?

Alternatives to if-else statements in Python include using elif for multiple conditions, using the match statement introduced in Python 3.10 for pattern matching, and using dictionaries to map conditions to actions. Depending on the scenario, each solution can simplify code while improving readability.

Q4. Can you have two if-else statements in Python?

Yes, you can use multiple if-else expressions in Python. Each if-else statement functions independently, allowing you to handle various conditions or scenarios separately. This strategy can be effective in complex decision-making situations when several unrelated conditions must be considered.
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About Author
Shailendra Chauhan (Microsoft MVP, Founder & CEO at Scholarhat by DotNetTricks)

Shailendra Chauhan is the Founder and CEO at ScholarHat by DotNetTricks which is a brand when it comes to e-Learning. He provides training and consultation over an array of technologies like Cloud, .NET, Angular, React, Node, Microservices, Containers and Mobile Apps development. He has been awarded Microsoft MVP 8th time in a row (2016-2023). He has changed many lives with his writings and unique training programs. He has a number of most sought-after books to his name which has helped job aspirants in cracking tough interviews with ease.
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