Simplifying Boolean Assignment Without the Ternary Operator

Simplifying Boolean Assignment Without the Ternary Operator

When learning C# for the first time, you often encounter code like this: 

bool isEven = (number % 2 == 0) ? true : false;

At first, assigning a boolean value using a ternary operator based on the result of a condition may feel natural and familiar. After all, the ternary operator (condition ? A : B) is a common syntax used for simple branching.

However, the same logic can be written in a much simpler way: 

bool isEven = (number % 2 == 0);

Why can you write it this way?

The condition (number % 2 == 0) already returns a boolean value. So, there's no need to explicitly branch it — you can directly assign the result to a boolean variable.

In other words, if the condition is true, it becomes true, and if it's false, it becomes false. The ternary operator in this case is just an unnecessary decoration.

Example Comparison

// Overly verbose
bool isAdult = (age >= 18) ? true : false;

// Cleaner and more intuitive
bool isAdult = (age >= 18);

When is this useful?

  • When you want to store a condition in a boolean variable without using if or a ternary operator
  • When you want to improve code readability
  • When the variable name clearly communicates the logic (e.g., isActive, isDead)

Summary

The result of a condition is inherently either true or false. You don’t need to write ? true : false — assigning the condition directly is cleaner and just as effective.

If you're in the habit of using the ternary operator for boolean conditions, take a moment to revisit your code. Sometimes, shorter really is clearer.

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