Lesson 2 - Python If Else Explained: Learn Conditional Statements for Beginners
Start learning Python conditional statements with clear examples. Understand how to use if, elif, and else in real scenarios. Use relational and logical operators to write smarter code. Practice online using free Python IDEs like Replit and Google Colab. This beginner-friendly guide helps you code with confidence.
PYTHON
Prof. Leonardo Gomes Guidolin
5/8/20241 min read
What Are Conditional Statements in Python?
Conditional statements allow your Python code to make decisions. By using if, elif, and else, you can execute different blocks of code based on specific conditions. This is essential for creating interactive and dynamic programs.
How to Use if in Python
The if statement runs a block of code only if a condition is true.
age = int(input("Enter your age: "))
if age >= 18:
print("You are an adult.")
If the user enters 18 or more, the message is shown. If not, nothing happens.
Using else for Alternative Outcomes
The else block runs when the if condition is not met.
age = int(input("Enter your age: "))
if age >= 18:
print("You are an adult.")
else:
print("You are a minor.")
This covers both situations: when the condition is true or false.
Using elif for Multiple Conditions
elif (short for else if) helps test multiple conditions in a clean way.
grade = float(input("Enter your grade: "))
if grade >= 9:
print("Excellent!")
elif grade >= 7:
print("Passed!")
elif grade >= 5:
print("Needs improvement.")
else:
print("Failed.")
This checks a student's grade and prints a message based on the score.
Relational and Logical Operators in Python
You’ll often combine conditional statements with operators:
Relational Operators:
== (equal), != (not equal), >, <, >=, <=
Logical Operators:
and, or, not
Example:
age = int(input("Enter your age: "))
ticket = input("Do you have a ticket? (y/n): ")
if age >= 18 and ticket == "y":
print("You may enter the party!")
else:
print("Entry not allowed.")
Test Your Python Code Online for Free
No installation needed! Try your code using these free platforms:
These tools are great for beginners to learn and practice Python.
Conclusion
Conditional structures like if, elif, and else are crucial for writing flexible Python programs. They help your code react to different scenarios logically. Keep practicing these concepts to become a better Python programmer!