Python Shorthand If
Short Hand If
If you have only one statement to execute, you can put it on the same line as the if statement.
Note: You still need the colon : after the condition.
Short Hand If ... Else
If you have one statement for if and one for else, you can put them on the same line using a conditional expression:
Example
One-line if/else that prints a value:
a = 2
b = 330
print("A") if a > b else print("B")
This is called a conditional expression (sometimes known as a "ternary operator").
Assign a Value With If ... Else
You can also use a one-line if/else to choose a value and assign it to a variable:
The syntax follows this pattern:
variable = value_if_true if condition else value_if_false
Multiple Conditions on One Line
You can chain conditional expressions, but keep it short so it stays readable:
Example
One line, three outcomes:
a = 330
b = 330
print("A") if a > b else print("=") if a == b else print("B")
Practical Examples
Ternary operators are particularly useful for simple assignments and return statements.
Example
Finding the maximum of two numbers:
x = 15
y = 20
max_value = x if x > y else y
print("Maximum value:", max_value)
Try it Yourself »
Example
Setting a default value:
username = ""
display_name = username if username else "Guest"
print("Welcome,", display_name)
Try it Yourself »
When to Use Shorthand If
Shorthand if statements and ternary operators should be used when:
- The condition and actions are simple
- It improves code readability
- You want to make a quick assignment based on a condition
Important: While shorthand if statements can make code more concise, avoid overusing them for complex conditions. For readability, use regular if-else statements when dealing with multiple lines of code or complex logic.
