Python Tutorials | Python if, elif, else Explained with Examples

In Python, the if, elif, and else statements form the backbone of decision-making and control flow. They allow your program to choose between different paths based on conditions.

Basic Structure

if condition1:
    # do something
elif condition2:
    # do something else
else:
    # fallback option

Example 1: Basic if

temperature = 35

if temperature > 30:
    print("It's a hot day")

Since the condition is true, the message is printed.

Example 2: if-else

age = 17

if age >= 18:
    print("You can vote")
else:
    print("You are underage")

Only one of the blocks runs depending on the condition.

Example 3: if-elif-else

marks = 82

if marks >= 90:
    print("Grade: A")
elif marks >= 75:
    print("Grade: B")
elif marks >= 60:
    print("Grade: C")
else:
    print("Grade: D")

Multiple levels of conditions handled cleanly.

Example 4: Nested if

score = 92

if score > 50:
    if score > 90:
        print("Excellent!")
    else:
        print("Good job!")

Nested conditions provide finer control.

Example 5: Multiple Conditions using and

age = 22
has_id = True

if age >= 18 and has_id:
    print("Entry granted")

Both conditions must be true for this to run.

Example 6: Multiple Conditions using or

is_student = False
is_senior = True

if is_student or is_senior:
    print("You get a discount")

Only one condition needs to be true.

Example 7: Using not in Conditions

logged_in = False

if not logged_in:
    print("Please log in first")

not reverses the condition.

Example 8: String Comparison

answer = "yes"

if answer == "yes":
    print("Proceeding...")

String comparisons are case-sensitive.

Example 9: elif Ladder

day = "Wednesday"

if day == "Monday":
    print("Start of the week")
elif day == "Wednesday":
    print("Midweek hustle")
elif day == "Friday":
    print("Almost weekend")
else:
    print("Just another day")

Perfect for menu or option selections.

Example 10: Boolean Flags

is_admin = True

if is_admin:
    print("Access to admin panel")
else:
    print("Limited access")

Booleans are often used directly in control statements.

Key Takeaways

Use if to check conditions.
Use elif for additional checks if the first is false.
Use else as a fallback when no conditions match.
Maintain proper indentation — Python depends on it for code blocks.
Group complex conditions using logical operators like and, or, and not.

Mastering if, elif, and else is crucial for building interactive, intelligent Python programs that respond dynamically to inputs and data.

Python

Search form