Python if Statements: Make Decisions in Code

This guide explains if Statements: Make Decisions in Code through a focused example and practical reasoning. No prior knowledge of this specific operation is required.

Understanding the Concept

An if statement executes its indented block only if its condition is truthy. It is appropriate when an action should happen under one condition and can otherwise be skipped.

When You Would Use This

Display a low-battery warning only when the battery is below the threshold.

Step-by-Step Example

battery_percentage = 14
if battery_percentage < 20:
    print("Charge your device")
print("Status check finished")

How the Example Works

The warning prints because 14 is below 20. The final message is outside the block and always prints.

Example Output

Charge your device
Status check finished

Try It Yourself

Change the percentage to exactly 20 and explain the result.

Common Beginner Mistakes

• Forgetting the colon after the condition.
• Placing a supposedly conditional statement outside the indentation.
• Using = instead of == in a comparison.

Key Takeaways

• An if statement executes its indented block only if its condition is truthy.
• The warning prints because 14 is below 20.
• Avoid this mistake: Forgetting the colon after the condition.