A switch statement is better than multiple if statements when the following conditions are met:

• The expression being tested can take on a limited number of values.
• The code that is executed for each value is relatively short.
• The readability of the code would be improved by using a switch statement.

In general, a switch statement is more efficient than multiple if statements because the compiler can generate a jump table to quickly find the correct case. However, if the number of cases is large, the switch statement may not be as efficient.

Example of when a switch statement is better than multiple if statements:

int dayOfWeek = 3;

// Using multiple if statements
if (dayOfWeek == 1) {
  System.out.println("Monday");
} else if (dayOfWeek == 2) {
  System.out.println("Tuesday");
} else if (dayOfWeek == 3) {
  System.out.println("Wednesday");
} else if (dayOfWeek == 4) {
  System.out.println("Thursday");
} else if (dayOfWeek == 5) {
  System.out.println("Friday");
} else if (dayOfWeek == 6) {
  System.out.println("Saturday");
} else if (dayOfWeek == 7) {
  System.out.println("Sunday");
}

// Using a switch statement
switch (dayOfWeek) {
  case 1:
    System.out.println("Monday");
    break;
  case 2:
    System.out.println("Tuesday");
    break;
  case 3:
    System.out.println("Wednesday");
    break;
  case 4:
    System.out.println("Thursday");
    break;
  case 5:
    System.out.println("Friday");
    break;
  case 6:
    System.out.println("Saturday");
    break;
  case 7:
    System.out.println("Sunday");
    break;
  default:
    System.out.println("Invalid day of week");
}

The switch statement is more readable because it is easier to see which case corresponds to which value. It is also more efficient because the compiler can generate a jump table to quickly find the correct case.

Here are some other things to consider when deciding whether to use a switch statement or multiple if statements:

• The complexity of the code that is executed for each case. If the code is complex, it may be better to use multiple if statements so that the code is easier to read and debug.
• The likelihood of adding new cases in the future. If there is a good chance that new cases will be added in the future, it is better to use a switch statement so that the code can be easily modified.

Ultimately, the best way to decide whether to use a switch statement or multiple if statements is to consider the specific situation and the trade-offs involved.