Skip to content

Case expression – choosing between several values

The case expression returns the value of the first condition that applies – like "if … else if … else" in a formula. It is the tool for every value that depends on a situation: a colour per priority, a text per status, a fallback for an empty field.

1. At a glance
Purpose Checks conditions in order and returns the value of the first one that is true
Typical use Colour or icon depending on the status, a label per category, a fallback value
Returns The value of the chosen branch, with its type
Related Logical (the conditions), rule Conditional of Modify Value (exactly two outcomes)

2. Settings

Setting Meaning Default
Cases ("If", "Else If") A list of branches, each with a condition and a "Return" value. "Add case" adds a branch. –
"Condition" An expression that returns yes/no – usually a logical expression – (required)
"Return" The value returned when the condition is true – (required)
"Default" The value returned when no condition is true (the "else") empty

The menu of a branch ("More") offers "Move up", "Move down" and "Show condition" / "Hide condition", which displays a logical condition read-only below the branch.

3. Behaviour

  1. The branches are checked from top to bottom.
  2. The first branch whose condition returns true (true or 1) wins; its "Return" value is evaluated and returned. Later branches are not checked.

  3. If no condition is true, "Default" is returned. Without "Default", the result is an empty value.

  4. Any other result of a condition – a text, a number other than 1, an empty value – counts as false.

  5. A branch without a condition never applies.
  6. A branch whose "Return" is empty returns an empty value.

Put the most specific condition first. A general condition at the top hides all branches below it.

4. Examples

Colour per priority:

Branch Condition Return
If "Priority" Equals Critical #D32F2F
Else If "Priority" Equals High #F57C00
Default – #757575

Fallback for an empty field: If "Contact person" Empty → Return the field "Customer name"; Default → the field "Contact person".