If-then order standards

[mrblister]

In Excel, for the formula: "IF(logical_test, value_if_true, value_if_false)"

Are there standards, OR are there efficiency rules, etcetera, that determine the BETTER version of the direction of the logical_test and the value_if_true/false?

For example, let's say the outcome of cell B1 is determined by whether cell A1 is blank (or not). So of the options:

1. IF(A1="", "HELLO", "HI")
2. IF(A1<>"", "HI", "HELLO")

Which one of those options is better to use? And in what circumstances?

 

[Herakles]

In Excel, for the formula: "IF(logical_test, value_if_true, value_if_false)"

Are there standards, OR are there efficiency rules, etcetera, that determine the BETTER version of the direction of the logical_test and the value_if_true/false?

For example, let's say the outcome of cell B1 is determined by whether cell A1 is blank (or not). So of the options:

1. IF(A1="", "HELLO", "HI")
2. IF(A1<>"", "HI", "HELLO")

Which one of those options is better to use? And in what circumstances?

I prefer the first method.

I always think that it is best to test is something is the case rather than testing if it is not the case.

When you have embedded IF statements then method 1 will be clearer to the reader.