If or whether — one test, right answer

Two words that often get swapped are if and whether. They aren’t interchangeable.

If sets a condition. One thing depends on another happening first.

“I’ll join the call if I’m back in time.”

Whether is about a choice between options.

“I’m not sure whether to join the call or skip it.”

Quick win

Try replacing your word with “whether or not“. If that fits, use whether. If it sounds wrong, use if.

One test. Right word, every time.