Simple decision
Description
if guards a block of code.
Explanation
The body runs only for true conditions.
Example
if (score >= 40) { System.out.println("Passed"); }← Chapter 4 — Decision Making & Loops
16. if, else if & else
mixed
Description
An if statement runs a block only when its condition is true. Add else if branches for additional conditions and else for the remaining case.
Conditions should express a real rule in plain language. Indentation and braces make each possible path easy to inspect.
Subtopics
Multiple branches
Description
else if checks another condition.
Explanation
Branches are tested from top to bottom.
Example
if (score >= 90) { grade = 'A'; } else { grade = 'B'; }Explanation
Order matters. Put the most specific or highest threshold first; otherwise an earlier broad condition can make a later branch unreachable.
Example
public class GradeDecision {
public static void main(String[] args) {
int score = 84;
if (score >= 90) System.out.println("A");
else if (score >= 75) System.out.println("B");
else System.out.println("Keep practicing");
}
}Key points
- if runs for a true condition.
- Branches are checked in order.
- Use braces for maintainable code.