PHP if else Statement Explained with Syntax & Examples

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Learn PHP basics with this beginner-friendly guide. Understand PHP syntax, variables, functions, and more to start building dynamic web applications.

What is an if else Statement in PHP?

The if construct is one of the most important features of many languages, PHP included.
It allows for conditional execution of code fragments. PHP features an if structure that is similar to that of C.
If statements can be nested infinitely within other if statements, which provides you with complete flexibility for conditional execution of the various parts of your program.

PHP if else Syntax

if (condition) {
    // code to execute if condition is true
} else {
    // code to execute if condition is false
}

Syntax - if-elseif-else Statement

if (condition) {  
    code to be executed if this condition is true;  
} elseif (condition) {  
    code to be executed if this condition is true;  
} else {  
    code to be executed if all conditions are false;  
}  

The following example would display a is bigger than b if $a is bigger than $b:

Example #1: Using elseif in PHP

<?php
if ($a > $b) {
    echo "a is greater than b";
} elseif ($a == $b) {
    echo "a is equal to b";
} else {
    echo "a is less than b";
}
?>

Example #2 IF example

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">

<head>
    <title>PHP - The if...elseif....else Statement</title>
</head>

<body>
    <?php

    // i for Minutes with leading zero, s for Seconds with leading zero
    echo "Today is " . date("d/m/Y") . "<br>";
    echo "Minutes:" . date("i");
    echo "<br> Seconds:" . date("s") . "<br>";
    //
    // if..elseif..else
    //
    $t = date("H");
    if ($t < "10") {
        echo "Have a good morning!";
    } elseif ($t < "20") {
        echo "Have a good day!";
    } else {
        echo "Have a good night!";
    }
    ?>
</body>
</html>