D: Automation is the future, and n8n is one of the most powerful open-source workflow automation tools available today. 🚀 Among its many nodes, the “If” node stands out as a critical component for building dynamic, logic-driven workflows. Whether you’re filtering data, making decisions, or routing tasks, mastering the If node can take your automation game to the next level.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the n8n If node, from basic setup to advanced use cases. Let’s dive in!
🔹 What Is the n8n If Node?
The If node is a conditional logic node that allows you to execute different workflow paths based on specified conditions. Think of it as a digital decision-maker—it evaluates data and routes tasks accordingly.
Basic Structure
Input Data → If (Condition) → True Path / False Path Key Features
✔ Multiple Conditions: Supports AND/OR logic.
✔ Comparison Operators: =, ≠, >, <, contains, startsWith, etc.
✔ Custom Expressions: JavaScript-like syntax for advanced logic.
🔹 10 Powerful Use Cases for the If Node
1️⃣ Filtering Incoming Emails
Scenario: Automatically categorize emails as “Important” or “Regular” based on keywords.
✅ Condition:
IF (Email Subject contains "URGENT" OR "IMPORTANT") → Label as "High Priority"
ELSE → Label as "Regular" 2️⃣ Auto-Approving Expenses Under a Limit
Scenario: Approve expense reports below $100 automatically; flag others for review.
✅ Condition:
IF (Expense Amount ≤ 100) → Approve
ELSE → Send to Manager 3️⃣ Dynamic CRM Lead Routing
Scenario: Route high-value leads to Sales, others to Marketing.
✅ Condition:
IF (Lead Score ≥ 80) → Assign to Sales Team
ELSE → Nurture via Email Drip 4️⃣ Social Media Post Scheduling
Scenario: Post immediately if engagement is high, else schedule for later.
✅ Condition:
IF (Post Likes > 100 in 1 hour) → Boost Post
ELSE → Reschedule for peak time 5️⃣ Inventory Restock Alerts
Scenario: Trigger a restock alert if stock falls below a threshold.
✅ Condition:
IF (Stock Level < 20) → Notify Supplier
ELSE → Do Nothing 6️⃣ Weather-Based Notifications
Scenario: Send an umbrella reminder if rain is forecasted.
✅ Condition:
IF (Weather = "Rainy") → Send SMS Alert
ELSE → Skip 7️⃣ Automated Customer Support Escalation
Scenario: Escalate tickets with negative sentiment.
✅ Condition:
IF (Sentiment Score < 0) → Escalate to Senior Support
ELSE → Auto-Reply with Solution 8️⃣ Subscription Renewal Reminders
Scenario: Notify users 7 days before expiry.
✅ Condition:
IF (Days Until Expiry ≤ 7) → Send Email Reminder
ELSE → Wait 9️⃣ Dynamic Discount Offers
Scenario: Offer discounts to inactive users.
✅ Condition:
IF (Last Login > 30 days) → Send 10% Off Coupon
ELSE → No Action 🔟 Smart Home Automation
Scenario: Turn off lights if no motion detected for 30 mins.
✅ Condition:
IF (Motion = False for 30 min) → Turn Off Lights
ELSE → Keep On 🔹 Advanced Tips for If Node Mastery
📌 Combining Multiple Conditions
Use AND/OR logic for complex decisions:
IF (Price > 100 AND Customer = VIP) → Free Shipping 📌 Using JavaScript Expressions
For custom logic, use expressions:
if ($input.all()[0].json.score > 50) { return true; } else { return false; }📌 Error Handling
Add a “False” path to handle unexpected cases gracefully.
🔹 Final Thoughts
The n8n If node is a game-changer for automation, enabling smart decision-making in workflows. By leveraging it effectively, you can:
✅ Save time with auto-filtering & routing.
✅ Reduce errors with structured logic.
✅ Enhance efficiency with dynamic workflows.
Now it’s your turn—start building smarter automations today! 🎯
🚀 Pro Tip: Experiment with n8n’s “Switch” node for even more complex branching logic!
Would you like a step-by-step tutorial on any of these use cases? Let me know in the comments! 💬👇