Conditional Execution — Lesson 2: Two possible paths

New skill: If and else
Previously learned: Unit 04 — comparisons and Boolean logic

Why this matters

An if/else structure guarantees that exactly one of two branches runs.

Study this example

def can_start(energy):
    if energy >= 50:
        return 'Start'
    else:
        return 'Recharge'

When the comparison is true, the first branch returns. Otherwise, the else branch returns. Both return values are strings.

Before moving on, predict the result of the program or function. Then run it and compare.

Check your understanding

What does can_start(50) return, and why?

Common mistake

Avoid returning a Boolean when the prompt explicitly requires a string.

Practice

Complete classify_pass_status(points) so it returns 'Pass' for scores at least 70, and 'Retry' otherwise.

Public example 1

Input

classify_pass_status(70)

Output

'Pass'

Public example 2

Input

classify_pass_status(69)

Output

'Retry'

Public example 3

Input

classify_pass_status(100)

Output

'Pass'

Open the Python starter

Hint 1

Which comparison includes 70?

Hint 2

Write one branch for meeting the threshold and one for failing it.

Hint 3

Return the exact capitalized word requested.

Reflection

Explain why your solution works and describe one boundary case you tried.