How can variables be manipulated within short if/else constructs in PHP without sacrificing readability?

When working with short if/else constructs in PHP, variables can be manipulated without sacrificing readability by using the ternary operator. This operator allows for concise conditional expressions that can easily update variables based on a condition. By using the ternary operator within the short if/else constructs, the code remains clear and easy to understand.

// Example of manipulating variables within short if/else constructs using the ternary operator
$number = 10;
$isEven = ($number % 2 == 0) ? true : false;

echo $isEven ? "Number is even" : "Number is odd";