What is a Ternary Operator?
Within the realm of JavaScript, Ternary operators are commonly referred to as Conditional Operators, providing a more concise way to convey conditional logic compared to traditional if-else statements. These operators work with three components: a condition, a result to be returned if the condition is true, and a result to be returned if the condition is false.
In essence, the ternary operator can be viewed as a concise method for expressing an if-else statement.
When programming in any programming language, there are multiple techniques to manage conditional scenarios. One widely used method is employing the if statement; however, in JavaScript, we have the option to utilize the ternary operator as an alternative. The ternary operator allows for the assignment of a value to a variable depending on a specified condition.
The ternary operator in JavaScript stands out as the sole operator that requires three operands. Its functionality closely resembles that of an if-else conditional statement, essentially serving as a concise alternative to the traditional if-else structure.
The ternary operator consists of a condition, a question mark (?), and two expressions divided by a colon (:). The first expression runs if the condition is true, while the second one runs if the condition is false.
Syntax
The structure of the ternary operator in JavaScript is as depicted below:
Condition? trueExpression : falseExpression
Parameters
- Condition: It is an expression whose value is used as a condition.
- trueExpression: An expression that is executed if the condition evaluates to be true value.
- falseExpression: An expression that is executed if the condition is false.
Why Should You Use JavaScript Ternary Operator?
The JavaScript ternary operator offers a succinct method for expressing conditional statements. Below are several advantages of utilizing the ternary operator in JavaScript:
Conciseness
It enables us to articulate conditional logic in a concise and legible manner, particularly when dealing with straightforward conditions.
Readability
Using the ternary condition for straightforward situations can enhance the readability of our code by maintaining the logic within the same line instead of splitting it across several lines for an if statement.
Avoid repetition
Utilizing the ternary operator allows us to prevent redundancy by avoiding the repetition of similar code blocks for various branches of a condition.
Functional style
In the realm of functional programming, opting for the ternary operator is favored over the conventional if statement due to its alignment with the functional paradigm's principle of steering clear of mutable states.
Inline usage
Assigning values to variables inline is especially beneficial when we want to set values directly or when we must assess a condition and promptly return a value without utilizing a complete if statement.
Using the ternary operator should be approached with caution to avoid making the code less readable. When the condition is overly complex or the expression's result is convoluted, opting for a conventional if statement can enhance clarity and maintain readability.
Example
Below is a straightforward illustration of determining if a number is odd or even by utilizing the ternary operator. The outcome will be shown through the alert message box.
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<head>
<script>
let a = 358;
let val = ( a % 2 == 0) ? 'Even Number' : 'Odd Number';
alert(val);
</script>
</head>
<body>
<h1> Welcome to the logic-practice.com </h1>
<h3> This is an example of ternary operator. </h3>
</body>
</html>
Output
After the execution, the output will be -
Example 2:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">
<head>
<meta charset="UTF-8">
<meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
<title>Even or Odd Checker</title>
</head>
<body>
<h2>Even or Odd Checker</h2>
<label for="number">Enter a number:</label>
<input type="number" id="numberInput">
<button onclick="checkEvenOrOdd()">Check</button>
<p id="result"></p>
<script>
function checkEvenOrOdd() {
// Get the input value
let number = parseInt(document.getElementById("numberInput").value);
// Use the ternary operator to check if the number is even or odd
let result = (number % 2 === 0) ? "even" : "odd";
// Display the result
document.getElementById("result").textContent = `The number ${number} is ${result}.`;
}
</script>
</body>
</html>
Output
After the execution, the output will be -
Advantage of Ternary Operator in JavaScript
The conditional operator in JavaScript, also known as the ternary operator, provides a number of benefits:
Efficiency
By utilizing the ternary operator, we can enhance the efficiency of our code by executing conditional checks swiftly and with clarity.
Clarity
When employed correctly, it can improve code clarity by succinctly presenting both the condition and its outcomes within a single line.
Simplified logic
The ternary operator is a useful tool for streamlining decision-making processes, enhancing clarity, and facilitating maintenance of code.
The ternary operator in JavaScript is a useful feature that allows for efficient and concise management of conditional statements.