An if-else if-else
statement is used to check multiple conditions in sequence. It allows the computer to make more complex decisions based on different conditions, not just one.
- If: The computer first checks a condition. If it is true, a specific action is performed.
- Else if: If the first condition is false, the computer checks another condition. If this second condition is true, a different action is performed.
- Else: If none of the conditions are true, the computer performs a default action.
Imagine deciding what to wear based on the weather and temperature:
- If it’s raining, you will take an umbrella.
- Else if it’s cold but not raining, you will wear a jacket.
- Else (if it's neither raining nor cold), you will wear a T-shirt.
In this case, there are multiple conditions and outcomes based on the weather conditions.
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Condition: The question the computer asks to decide which path to take. Each
if
orelse if
provides a different condition to check.- Example: "Is it raining?", "Is it cold?"
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True outcome: If a condition is true, the computer will follow the associated action.
- Example: Take an umbrella if it's raining.
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False outcome: If a condition is false, the computer moves to the next condition or performs a default action.
- Example: If it's not raining but cold, wear a jacket. If none of the conditions are true, wear a T-shirt.
You’re deciding on transportation based on time:
- If it’s early and you have plenty of time, you walk.
- Else if you’re a bit late, you take a bike.
- Else (if you're running very late), you take a cab.
Here, the if-else if-else
structure helps decide between multiple outcomes based on how late you are.
- You can have multiple "else if" conditions, not just one.
- The first "if" that evaluates to true will execute its code, and the others won’t be checked.
- The "else" is like a catch-all – it runs if none of the previous conditions are true.
You can learn more about conditional statements here.