---
title: If-else Statement
---
## Introduction
If/Else is a conditional statement where depending on the truthiness of a condition, different actions will be performed.  
> **Note:** The `{}` brackets are only needed if the condition has more than one action statement; however, it is best practice to include them regardless.
## If Statement
```
 **Note:** You can nest as many statements in an "if" block as you'd like; you are not limited to the amount in the examples.
## If/Else Statement
```
 **Note:** The `else` statement is optional.
## If/Elseif/Else Statement
```
 **Note:** `elseif` should always be written as one word.
## Nested If/Else Statement
```
 **Note:** It's a good practice to wrap individual conditions in parens when you have more than one (it can improve readability).
## Ternary Operators
Another important option to consider when using short If/Else statements is the ternary operator.
```php
  $statement=(condition1 ? "condition1 is true" : "condition1 is false");
```
## Alternative If/Else Syntax
There is also an alternative syntax for control structures
```php
  if (condition1):
    statement1;
  else:
    statement5;
  endif;
```    
#### More Information:
* PHP Alternative syntax for control structures
* php.net control structures If Manual
* php.net control structures Else If Manual