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Python Basics · Control Flow · Lesson 7 of 36

if/elif/else

Concept

if/elif/else

Python uses indentation, not braces, to define which code belongs to each branch of a condition.

elif is Python's word for "else if" — a chain can have as many elif branches as needed, with at most one final else.

By the end of this lesson
  • Explain the core idea behind if/elif/else.
  • Predict output before running a change.
  • Test one realistic and one unusual input.
  • Use the result to make the next decision.
How to study this page
  1. 1. Read one concept.
  2. 2. Change the example.
  3. 3. Run, compare, and explain.
  4. 4. Complete the challenge below.
Syntax
if condition:
    # code
elif other_condition:
    # code
else:
    # code
ExampleRunnable
score = 72
if score >= 90:
    print("A")
elif score >= 70:
    print("B")
else:
    print("C")
Try it Yourself »
Self-check before continuing

Without looking at the example, describe what changes when you modify one input in if/elif/else. Then reopen the editor and prove your explanation with a small test.

You are ready to continue when you can predict, test, and explain the result.

Your turn

Write an if/elif/else chain that prints a weather-appropriate outfit suggestion.

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Console

Output will appear here...