Nothing is more frustrating than encountering a syntax error when you think your code is perfect. In this article, we’re going to dissect the ‘elif’ function in Python, unraveling common syntax errors and their solutions.
In this article we shall deep dive into a particular function exploring the different potential syntax errors that might pop-up while running it. So, with no further ado, let’s dive into debunking the syntax errors in the ‘elif’ function in Python.
- The Indentation Oversight
- Using Incorrect Operators
- The Missing Parenthesis
Also read: Python if else elif Statement
Common ‘elif’ syntax errors in Python include indentation errors, misuse of operators, and missing parentheses. Correcting these errors involves placing ‘if’ and ‘elif’ at the same indent level, using ‘==’ for comparison instead of ‘=’, and ensuring that all parentheses are properly closed. These corrections help to maintain the flow of code execution and prevent syntax errors.
Elif Syntax Error 1: Indentation Oversight
Indents play a crucial role while constructing conditional statements in Python coding. Indentation conveys the relationship between a condition and its subsequent instructions. Let us have a look at the below example to witness how things could derail so swiftly.
ip = int(input("Enter your year of birth:"))
if ip>2000:
print("Welcome 2k kid!")
elif ip<2000:
print("Wow you’re old!")
It can be seen that the code was not even completed, but there is a syntax error knocking right at the door! Wonder what went wrong? The indentation! Here, ‘elif’ is indented at the same level as the statements within the ‘if’ block, which is a mistake.
This raises a conflict when the set of instructions following the if are run since elif is also taken for execution but in actual case, it needn’t be. So the solution here is to place both the if and the elif at the same indent such as in the code given below.
if ip>2000:
print("Welcome 2k kid!")
elif ip<2000:
print("Wow you’re old!")
Elif Syntax Error 2 – Using Incorrect Operators
Sometimes, a subtle difference in operator usage can lead to syntax errors in an ‘elif’ statement. Let us have a look at how this happens.
The comparison turmoil: Oftentimes one shall use “=” synonymous with “==”, but these two are really distinct and do not serve the same purpose. The former is used to assign a value whilst the latter is used to compare values. There is no point in assigning a value following the if, rather one only needs to compare a value in that place. When this incorrect synonymy enters into an elif code, it is a sure shot recipe for a syntax error. The below example shall explain better.
Python is smart enough to suggest that the coder might want to use “==” in the place of “=” when encountering a “=” in an if code. Nice, ain’t it?
Let us now correct it and get on with the code to see what happens.
The missing colon: What? Again? But this time it’s for a different reason. There is a missing ‘:’ following the elif that has caused the syntax error. Rectifying this should make the code work.
Elif Syntax Error 3 – The Missing Parenthesis
While it may seem trivial, missing parentheses can cause serious syntax issues. Sometimes, one can forget to finish what was started (i.e) close those brackets which were opened. Take a look at the code below for a better understanding.
After adding the missing parenthesis, the code executes flawlessly.
ip = 5675
if int(ip == 5675):
print("True")
elif int(ip !=5675):
print("False")
Conclusion
This article has taken you on a journey through the common syntax errors encountered when using Python’s ‘elif’ function. With this knowledge, you should be able to debug such issues more efficiently. Here’s another article that details the usage of bit manipulation and bit masking in Python. There are numerous other enjoyable and equally informative articles in AskPython that might be of great help to those who are looking to level up in Python. Audere est facere!