Request more info

IFs Tutorial Videos

Video guidance to get you started
IFs does not predict a single future. It helps users compare plausible futures under different assumptions.

Use these task-based videos to learn how International Futures (IFs) is structured, how to move through the platform, and how to begin working with data, displays, scenarios, and extended features.

New users should begin with the first two sections before moving into data, displays, or scenarios. Returning users can jump directly to the task they need.

Suggested first 30 minutes

New to IFs? Start here.

  • Watch “What is IFs?”
  • Watch the interface introduction.
  • Open IFs Online.
  • Find one country and one indicator.
  • Compare the Base Case to a simple scenario.
  • Record what you changed and how the result differs from the Base Case.

For best results, open IFs Online or IFs Desktop in another window and follow along with the tutorial task.

What is IFs?

Start here for a plain-language overview of what IFs is, what it can and cannot do, and how scenario analysis differs from prediction.

Learn the IFs interface

Use this section to learn how to move through the platform, find major tools, and understand the Base Case.

Work with data

Use this section to learn how to find indicators, compare countries or regions, and interpret historical and forecasted data.

Build flexible displays

Use this section to learn how to create charts and tables that compare variables, countries, regions, and scenarios.

Compare scenarios

Use this section to learn how to adjust assumptions, compare scenario results against the Base Case, and interpret changes with care.

Scenario results depend on the assumptions users select and the relationships represented in IFs. Use scenarios to compare conditional pathways, not to predict what will happen.

Explore extended Features

Use this section after you understand the basics and want to work with more advanced platform tools.

Help support a global community working toward a more knowable future

Pardee’s open tools, research, and training resources support students, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners around the world. Your gift helps keep that work accessible and strengthens the public research infrastructure behind it.

Give to Pardee

Stay connected with Pardee

Follow Pardee research, publications, events, and tools that help people reason more clearly about possible futures.

Subscribe

Contact us

Copyright ©2026 University of Denver | All rights reserved | The University of Denver is an equal opportunity institution

Website Accessibility
crossmenuchevron-downarrow-rightcross-circle