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ELIF functions

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JackLathrop01
5 - Automation Enthusiast
5 - Automation Enthusiast
Status: New Ideas

I assume this is a popular request but I think ELIF functions would be very helpful in making functions easier to write. Nested IFs can get cumbersome and the alternative SWITCH can be difficult given a large set of possible values. Converting single and multi select fields into a logical format would be much simpler using ELIF. This would likely also generally reduce the need for dummy fields used for steps in a larger function. 

I find the select fields to be very useful for users and would like to be able to run automations and calculations via select fields but it seems more difficult than necessary. I think ELIF would reduce the complexity. 

3 Comments
dora45rose
4 - Data Explorer
4 - Data Explorer

@JackLathrop01 federal marketplace wrote:

I assume this is a popular request but I think ELIF functions would be very helpful in making functions easier to write. Nested IFs can get cumbersome and the alternative SWITCH can be difficult given a large set of possible values. Converting single and multi select fields into a logical format would be much simpler using ELIF. This would likely also generally reduce the need for dummy fields used for steps in a larger function. 

I find the select fields to be very useful for users and would like to be able to run automations and calculations via select fields but it seems more difficult than necessary. I think ELIF would reduce the complexity. 


This makes a lot of sense, as ELIF can significantly simplify decision-making structures compared to nested IF statements.

Benefits of Using ELIF:

  1. Readability: Code becomes easier to read and understand. Each condition is clear and distinct, which helps anyone who reviews the code later.

  2. Reduced Complexity: It flattens the decision structure, making it less prone to errors compared to deeply nested IF statements.

  3. Flexibility: You can handle multiple conditions without needing a lot of dummy fields, which can clutter your data model.

  4. Easier Maintenance: Adding or modifying conditions becomes simpler. You just add a new ELIF block instead of restructuring a nested set of conditions.

Example Implementation:

If you're using a language like Python, the syntax would look something like this:
def process_selection(user_input):
if user_input == "Option A":
return "You selected A"
elif user_input == "Option B":
return "You selected B"
elif user_input == "Option C":
return "You selected C"
else:
return "Invalid selection"

JackLathrop01
5 - Automation Enthusiast
5 - Automation Enthusiast

I am almost positive that the response is ChatGPT. As an addendum there needs to be a way to screen/report bots on this forum.

Alexey_Gusev
13 - Mars
13 - Mars

Hi,
To be honest, even after googling I couldn't realize what's the "ELIF functions", besides it's a Python feature.
I think I partially understand that, it just have other name in other languages.
If we talking about formulas, given example could be replaced by shorter SWITCH

 

SWITCH( {user_input},
"Option A","You selected A",
"Option B","You selected B",
"Option C","You selected C",
"Invalid selection")

 

and if about scripting, on JS it would be

 

let result = user_input=="Option A"? "You selected A": user_input=="Option B"?
 "You selected B": user_input=="Option C"? "You selected C": "Invalid selection"