interactive programming

[Chris Richard Adams]

How can I create a loop - interactively.  I'm just trying to learn
syntax for example, so Id like to create conditional if statements like
a = 'feb'

if a == 'jan':
	mo = 1
elif a == 'feb':
	mo = 2
elif a == 'mar':
	mo = 3
...

I tried to type this interactively, but I get a mess of error about
syntax or mis placed whitespace...

1.) After the return after mo = 1 - how do I make sure theelif is
aligned with if?

2.) Is there any refernces for interactive programming - the tutorial is
too short?

Thanks,Chris