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Conditional Statements in Python

Decoding Python's Conditional Statements: A Beginner's Guide

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Introduction:

Today, let’s dive into the basics of conditional statements in Python using straightforward examples. We’ll explore nested conditionals, multi-way decisions, the difference between else-if and if-if statements, and the simplicity of conditional expressions. Ready? Let’s begin this learning journey!

Conditional Statements in Python

Topic 1: Nested Conditional Statements

Nested conditionals are like decision trees. If the first condition is true, it checks another condition inside it.

Program 1: Meal Decision

# Title: Meal Decision

# Input: Time of day

time_of_day = input("Enter the time of day (morning/afternoon/evening): ")

# Nested conditions to suggest a meal

if time_of_day == "morning":

    print("Enjoy your breakfast!")

elif time_of_day == "afternoon":

    print("Lunchtime! Grab a bite.")

else:

    print("Dinner is served. Bon appétit!")

# Explanation: This program recommends a meal based on the time of day using nested conditionals.
  • Input: Time of day (morning/afternoon/evening)
  • Explanation: Depending on the time, it suggests a meal. For example, “Lunchtime! Grab a bite.”

Topic 2: Multi-way Decision/ Conditional  Statements

In programming, multi-way decision statements are utilized when a situation involves several possible conditions or outcomes. Instead of a binary choice (true or false), multi-way decisions cater to a spectrum of possibilities. These structures empower the program to make nuanced decisions based on various conditions.

Program 2: Traffic Light Simulator

# Title: Traffic Light Simulator

# Input: Traffic light color

traffic_light_color = input("Enter the traffic light color (red/yellow/green): ")

# Multi-way decision to simulate traffic light behavior

if traffic_light_color == "red":

    print("Stop! Wait for the green light.")

elif traffic_light_color == "yellow":

    print("Caution! Prepare to stop or proceed with care.")

else:

    print("Go! The road is clear.")

# Explanation: This program simulates a traffic light's behavior based on the input color.
  • Input: Traffic light color (red/yellow/green)
  • Explanation: Simulates traffic light behavior based on the input color. For example, “Caution! Prepare to stop or proceed with care.”

Topic 3: else-if Statement vs if-if Conditional Statement

The else-if statement, also known as the “elif” statement in Python, provides a structured way to check multiple conditions sequentially. It operates in a step-by-step manner, examining each condition in order. Once it encounters a true condition, it executes the associated block of code and exits the structure. If none of the conditions is true, the else block (if present) can provide a default action.

Program 3: Exam Result Evaluator

# Title: Exam Result Evaluator

# Input: Exam score
exam_score = int(input("Enter your exam score: "))

# else-if statement to evaluate exam results
if exam_score >= 90:
    print("Excellent! You scored an A.")
elif 80 <= exam_score < 90:
    print("Good job! You scored a B.")
else:
    print("Study harder. You need to improve.")

# Explanation: This program evaluates exam results using an else-if statement.
  • Input: Exam score
  • Explanation: Evaluates exam results using else-if. For example, “Good job! You scored a B.”

Topic 4: Conditional Expressions

Conditional expressions, a concise programming tool, let you make decisions in just one line. They serve as a shorthand for if-else statements, streamlining code and making it more readable. Instead of several lines of code, you can use a single line to express conditions and assign values based on those conditions. This simplicity enhances code efficiency and is particularly handy for straightforward decision-making in various programming scenarios.

Program 4: Number Comparison

# Title: Number Comparison

# Input: Two numbers
num1 = float(input("Enter the first number: "))
num2 = float(input("Enter the second number: "))

# Conditional expression to compare numbers
result = "equal" if num1 == num2 else "not equal"

# Output the result
print(f"The numbers are {result}.")

# Explanation: This program uses a conditional expression to compare two numbers.
  • Input: Two numbers
  • Explanation: Uses a short expression to compare two numbers. For example, “The numbers are equal.”

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