Recall that a \( \pi \) bond is formed by the sideways (side-by-side) overlap of atomic orbitals, which is different from the end-to-end overlap that forms a \( \sigma \) bond.
Identify the types of orbitals involved in \( \pi \) bond formation: \( \pi \) bonds arise from the overlap of unhybridized \( p \) orbitals that remain after hybridization.
Understand that \( sp^3 \) hybrid orbitals are involved in forming \( \sigma \) bonds, not \( \pi \) bonds, because they overlap end-to-end.
Recognize that \( s \) orbitals overlap end-to-end to form \( \sigma \) bonds, so they do not contribute to \( \pi \) bond formation.
Conclude that the correct condition for a \( \pi \) bond to form is the side-by-side overlap of unhybridized \( p \) orbitals.