If / Else

An if statement runs code only when a condition is true.

Think of a door that opens only when the password is right.

The condition must be a bool. Go will not guess for you.

Parentheses around the condition are optional. Most Go code leaves them out.

Basic if

Write if, then a true/false check, then braces.

Braces are required even for one line.

That keeps the code neat and helps avoid bugs.

if and else

else is the other path.

If the check is false, the else block runs.

else if chains

Chain else if to test several conditions in order.

The first true branch runs. The rest are skipped.

Think of picking the first matching door in a hallway.

Short statement before the check

Go lets you run a short statement before the condition: if x := value; condition.

That variable only lives inside the if/else block.

It is like a temporary sticky note for this choice only.

Keep conditions clear

Write checks that a human can read out loud.

If you have many branches, a switch may be easier.

Keep conditions clear. For many branches, try switch next.