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C is a powerful general-purpose programming language. It can be used to develop software like operating systems, databases, compilers, and so on. C programming is an excellent language to learn to program for beginners.

Our C tutorials will guide you to learn C programming one step at a time.

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C Introduction

C flow control, c functions, structure and union, additional topics, about c programming.

  • Why learn C ?
  • How to learn C?
  • C Programming Resources
  • Keywords & Identifier
  • Variables & Constants
  • C Data Types
  • C Input/Output
  • C Operators
  • C Introduction Examples
  • C if...else
  • C while Loop
  • C break and continue
  • C switch...case
  • C Programming goto
  • Control Flow Examples
  • C Programming Functions
  • C User-defined Functions
  • C Function Types
  • C Recursion
  • C Storage Class
  • C Function Examples
  • C Programming Arrays
  • C Multi-dimensional Arrays
  • C Arrays & Function
  • C Programming Pointers
  • C Pointers & Arrays
  • C Pointers And Functions
  • C Memory Allocation
  • Array & Pointer Examples

C Programming Strings

  • C Programming String
  • C String Functions
  • C String Examples
  • C Structure
  • C Struct & Pointers
  • C Struct & Function
  • C struct Examples

C Programming Files

  • C Files Input/Output
  • C Files Examples
  • C Enumeration
  • C Preprocessors
  • C Standard Library
  • C Programming Examples
  • Procedural Language - Instructions in a C program are executed step by step.
  • Portable - You can move C programs from one platform to another, and run it without any or minimal changes.
  • Speed - C programming is faster than most programming languages like Java, Python, etc.
  • General Purpose - C programming can be used to develop operating systems, embedded systems, databases, and so on.

Why Learn C Programming?

  • C helps you to understand the internal architecture of a computer, how computer stores and retrieves information.
  • After learning C, it will be much easier to learn other programming languages like Java, Python, etc.
  • Opportunity to work on open source projects. Some of the largest open-source projects such as Linux kernel, Python interpreter, SQLite database, etc. are written in C programming.

How to learn C Programming?

  • Interactive C Course - Want to learn C Programming by solving quizzes and challenges after learning each concept? Enroll in our C Interactive Course for FREE.
  • C tutorial from Programiz - We provide step by step C tutorials, examples, and references. Get started with C.
  • Official C documentation - Might be hard to follow and understand for beginners. Visit official C Programming documentation.
  • Write a lot of C programming code - The only way you can learn programming is by writing a lot of code.

C Resources

  • Interactive C Course
  • What is C Programming?
  • C Programming References

Codeforwin

C programming examples, exercises and solutions for beginners

Fundamentals.

  • Hello world program in C
  • Basic input/output
  • Basic IO on all data types
  • Perform arithmetic operations
  • Find area and perimeter of rectangle
  • Find diameter and area of circle
  • Find area of triangle
  • Find angles of triangle
  • Temperature conversion
  • Length conversion
  • Days conversion
  • Find power of a number
  • Find square root
  • Calculate simple interest
  • Calculate compound interest
  • Find range of data types

Bitwise Operator

  • Check Least Significant Bit (LSB)
  • Check Most Significant Bit (MSB)
  • Get nth bit of a number
  • Set nth bit of a number
  • Clear nth bit of a number
  • Toggle nth bit of a number
  • Highest set bit of a number
  • Lowest set bit of a number
  • Count trailing zeros of binary number
  • Count leading zeros of binary number
  • Flip bits of a number
  • Rotate bits of a number
  • Decimal to binary
  • Swap two numbers
  • Check even or odd
  • View all Bitwise operator examples →

Ternary Operator

  • Maximum of two numbers
  • Maximum of three numbers
  • Check leap year
  • Check alphabet
  • View all ternary operator examples →
  • Find maximum of two numbers
  • Find maximum of three numbers
  • Check negative, positive or zero
  • Check divisibility
  • Check alphabet character
  • Check vowel or consonant
  • Check alphabet, digit or special character
  • Check uppercase or lowercase
  • Print day of week
  • Find number of days in month
  • Find roots of quadratic equation
  • Calculate profile/loss
  • View all if else examples →

Switch case

  • Find total days in month
  • Check positive, negative or zero
  • Simple calculator application
  • View all switch case examples →

Loop/Iteration

  • Print natural numbers from 1 to n
  • Print alphabets from a to z
  • Print even numbers from 1 to n
  • Print sum of all numbers from 1 to n
  • Print sum of all odd numbers from 1 to n
  • Print multiplication table of n
  • Find number of digits in a number
  • Find first and last digit
  • Find sum of first and last digit
  • Swap first and last digit
  • Find sum of digits of a number
  • Find reverse of a number
  • Find frequency of digits in a number
  • Find power of a number using loop
  • Find factorial of a number
  • Find HCF of two numbers
  • Find LCM of two numbers
  • View all loop examples →

Number system and conversion

  • Find one's complement
  • Find two's complement
  • Binary to octal conversion
  • Binary to decimal conversion
  • Binary to hexadecimal conversion
  • Octal to binary conversion
  • Octal to decimal conversion
  • Octal to hexadecimal conversion
  • Decimal to binary conversion
  • Decimal to octal conversion
  • Decimal to hexadecimal conversion
  • Hexadecimal to binary conversion
  • Hexadecimal to octal conversion
  • Hexadecimal to decimal conversion
  • View all conversion examples →

Star patterns

  • Pascal triangle generation
  • Square star pattern
  • Hollow square star pattern
  • Hollow square star pattern with diagonal
  • Rhombus star pattern
  • Hollow rhombus star pattern
  • Right triangle star pattern
  • Hollow right triangle star pattern
  • Inverted right triangle star pattern
  • Mirrored inverted right triangle star pattern
  • Pyramid star pattern
  • Inverted pyramid star pattern
  • Diamond star pattern
  • Plus starpattern
  • X star pattern
  • 8 star pattern
  • Heart star with name pattern
  • View all star pattern examples →

Number patterns

  • Square number pattern
  • Right triangle number pattern
  • Inverted right triangle
  • Triangle with zero filled
  • Half diamond pattern
  • Half diamond star bordered pattern
  • X number pattern
  • View all number pattern examples →
  • Find cube using functions
  • Diameter & area of circle using functions
  • Maximum and minimum using functions
  • Check even odd using functions
  • Check Prime number using functions
  • Find all prime numbers using functions
  • Find all strong numbers using functions
  • Find all armstrong numbers using functions
  • Find all perfect numbers using functions
  • View all function examples →
  • Find power using recursion
  • Print natural numbers using recursion
  • Print even numbers using recursion
  • Sum of natural numbers using recursion
  • Sum of even/odd numbers using recursion
  • Find reverse using recursion
  • Check palindrome using recursion
  • Find sum of digits using recursion
  • Find factorial using recursion
  • Generate nth Fibonacci term using recursion
  • Find HCF (GCD) using recursion
  • Find LCM using recursion
  • Sum of array elements using recursion
  • View all recursion examples →
  • Input and display array elements
  • Sum of all array elements
  • Find second largest element in array
  • Copy one array to another
  • Insert new element in array
  • Delete an element from array
  • Find frequency of array elements
  • Merge two array to third array
  • Delete duplicate elements from array
  • Reverse an array
  • Search an element in array
  • Sort an array
  • Left rotate an array
  • Right rotate an array
  • View all array examples →

Matrix (2D array)

  • Add two matrices
  • Scalar matrix multiplication
  • Multiply two matrices
  • Check if two matrices are equal
  • Sum of diagonal elements of matrix
  • Interchange diagonal of matrix
  • Find upper triangular matrix
  • Find sum of lower triangular matrix
  • Find transpose of triangular matrix
  • Find determinant of a matrix
  • Check identity matrix
  • Check sparse matrix
  • Check symmetric matrix
  • View all matrix examples →
  • Find length of string
  • Copy string to another string
  • Concatenate two strings
  • Compare two strings
  • Convert lowercase to uppercase
  • Find reverse of a string
  • Check palindrome
  • Reverse order of words
  • Search a character in string
  • Search a word in string
  • Find highest occurring character
  • Remove all duplicate characters
  • Replace a character in string
  • Trim whitespace from string
  • View all string examples →
  • Create, initialize and use pointer
  • Add two numbers using pointers
  • Swap two numbers using pointers
  • Access array using pointers
  • Copy array using pointers
  • Reverse array using pointers
  • Access 2D array using pointers
  • Multiply matrices using pointers
  • Copy strings using pointers
  • Concatenate strings using pointers
  • Compare strings using pointers
  • Reverse strings using pointers
  • Sort array strings using pointers
  • Return multiple values from function using pointers
  • View all pointers examples →
  • Create file and write contents
  • Read file contents and display
  • Append contents to file
  • Compare two files
  • Copy one file to another
  • Merge two files
  • Remove a word from file
  • Remove a line from file
  • Replace a word in file
  • Replace a line in file
  • Print source code
  • Convert uppercase to lowercase in file
  • Find properties of file
  • Check if file or directory exists
  • Rename a file or directory
  • List of files recursively
  • View all files handling examples →

Macros/Pre-processor directives

  • Create custom header file
  • Define, undefine and redefine a macro
  • Find sum using macro
  • Find square and cube using macro
  • Check even/odd using macro
  • Find maximum or minimum using macro
  • Check lowercase/uppercase using macro
  • Swap two numbers using macro
  • Multiline macros

What is The C Programming Language? A Tutorial for Beginners

This tutorial will give you a broad overview of basic concepts of the C programming language.

We'll go over the history of the language, why and where it is used, the compilation process, and some very basic programming concepts that are common in most popular programming languages.

This is not a complete guide to the language, but will rather give you a high level understanding of important C concepts and ideas as an absolute beginner to coding.

Each language has its own syntax and specific ways of doing things, but the concepts covered here are common and applied to all programming languages.

Having an understanding of how things work and these universal concepts can take you a long way in your coding journey. It makes learning a new technology easier in the long run.

This tutorial takes heavy inspiration from the material covered in the first couple of weeks of the course CS50: Introduction To Computer Science which I highly recommend to anyone wanting to dive deeper into computer science and programming no matter their level of experience.

Table of Contents

  • The History behind the origins of C - An Overview
  • Language Characteristics and why to consider learning C

Where Is C used?

  • Compilation process: Write-Compile-Run
  • Header files
  • Main program
  • Output or printing to the console
  • Declaring vs initialising a variable
  • A couple rules for naming a variable
  • The scope of a variable
  • Format codes
  • Arithmetic operators
  • Assignment operator
  • Logical operators
  • Comparison operators
  • Function arguments
  • Function outputs
  • Defining a method
  • Calling a function
  • Boolean Expressions
  • Conditional Statements
  • Loops 1. While loops 2. Do-While loops
  • Extra Reading

The History of the C Programming Language

The history of the C programming language is closely tied to the history of the development of the Unix Operating System.

If we look back to understand what led to the development of the operating system that changed the world of computing, we'll see the steps that led to the development of C.

Simply put, C was derived from the need to initially find and eventually create a language to apply on the Unix Operating system.

Project MAC and MULTICS

It all started in 1965 when the experimental project MAC was completed at MIT – the first system of its kind. This was the beginning of the MULTICS era. It used something called CTSS, or the Compatible Time Sharing System.

This was a key innovation at that time. Up to this point, we were in the early mainframe era, where massive, powerful, and extremely costly computers used to take up entire rooms.

To get tasks done, programmers would write code by hand. Then they'd punch a deck of paper tape cards that were encoded with the program written by hand.

They did this by handing the sheets of paper the program was written on to operators who used a key punch machine that would punch the card's holes and represent the data and instructions on the card.

Then they'd feed the punched cards to a punch card reader connected to the mainframe computer. It then converted the sequences in the cards holes to digital information. Simple tasks took a long time using this method and only one person could use each machine at a time.

The idea of time sharing changed everything. Instead of using cards, it attached multiple consoles (which at the time were mechanical terminals called teletypes) to a main computer. This allowed many people to use the same computer simultaneously.

Over 100 typewriter terminals spread around MIT's campus could be attached to one main big computer. This system supported up to 30 remote users at the same time, each using one of those terminals.

The operating system of the main computer multitasked and circled around the people who wanted to perform computing tasks from their connected terminals and gave a few seconds to each one.

It provided what seemed like a continuous service, appearing to be loading and running many programs simultaneously. But in reality it just went through each user's program very quickly. This gave the illusion that one person had the whole computer to themselves.

This system proved to be extremely efficient, effective, and productive, saving time and in the long run money, since those computers were extremely expensive.

Something that might have taken days to complete now took much less time. And this started enabling greater access to computing.

Following the success of the CTSS, MIT decided it was time to build upon this system and take the next step. This next step would be to create a more advanced time sharing system.

But they imagined a more ambitious endeavor than that: they wanted to build a system that would serve as a computing utility for programers that would be capable of supporting hundreds of users accessing the mainframe at the same time. And it would share of data and resources between them.

This would require more resources, so they joined forces with General Electric and Bell Labs.

This new project was named MULTICS, which stood for 'Multiplexed Information and Computing Service' and was implemented on one of General Electric's mainframes, the GE 635.

This team worked on MULTICS for a number of years. But in 1969 Bell Labs left the project because it was taking too long and was too expensive.

Bell Labs: The Innovation Hub

Bell Labs pulling out of the MULTICS project left some employees frustrated and looking for alternatives.

While working on MULTICS, the team created an unparalleled computing environment. They were used to working with time sharing systems and had seen their effectiveness. These programmers had a vast knowledge of operating systems, and the innovations from that project made them want to expand more.

A group led mainly by Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie wanted to use communal computing and create a file system that they could share. It would have the innovative characteristics they liked from MULTICS but they'd implement it in a simple, smaller, and less expensive way.

They shared their ideas and started to iterate.

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Bell Labs fostered an open and supportive environment that allowed creative expression and innovative ideas to bloom. It was research heavy, and they encouraged independent thinking problem solving to help them improve upon their initial solutions.

Through lots of discussion and experimentation they made the biggest breakthroughs and wrote history.

While still working on MULTICS, Ken Thompson had created a game called Space Travel. He initially wrote it on MULTICS, on the GE 635, but when Bell Labs pulled out he adapted the gamae to a Fortran program to run on the GECOS operating system that ran on the GE 635.

There were many problems with the game – it did not work as well on GECOS as it did on MULTICS and he needed a different and less expensive machine to run it on.

Ken Thompson faced rejection when asking for funding to create a different operating system, since Bell labs had pulled out from such a project already. But he did end up finding an old and little-used DEC PDP-7 minicomputer that he could try out – it was the only system available.

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He started to write his game on that simple system but was limited by the software on the computer. So while he was working on it, he ended up implementing the bare bones of the file system his team had been envisioning.

He started with a hierarchical file system, a command line interpreter, and other utility programs. Within a month he had created an operating system with an assembler, editor, and shell. They were smaller and simpler features of MULTICS. This operating system was the first version of Unix.

The Early Days of Unix with Assembly language

At the beginning of the project, Ken Thompson could not program on the DEC PDP-7 computer. DEC PDP-7 programs had to be compiled and translated on the more powerful GE 635 mainframe and then the output was physically transferred to the PDP-7 by paper tape.

The DEC PDP-7 had very little memory, just 8KB. To deal with this restriction, the filesystem, the first version of the Unix kernel, and practically everything else in the project were coded in Assembly. Using Assembly allowed Thompson to directly manipulate and control each part of the memory on that computer.

Assembly language is a low level programming language which uses symbolic code and is close to the machine's native language, binary. The instructions in the code and each statement in the language closely corresponds to machine instructions specific to the computer's architecture.

It's machine dependent and machine specific, meaning one set of instructions has very different results from one machine to another. Programs written in Assembly language are written for a specific type of processor – so a program written in Assembly will not work on a variety of processors.

It was common to write operating systems using Assembly language back then. And when they first started working on Unix, they did not have portability in mind.

They didn't care if the operating system worked on different machine systems and architectures. That was a thought that came later. Their main priority was the efficiency of the software.

While working on MULTICS, they used high level programming languages, like PL/I in the beginning and later BCPL. Programmers had gotten used to using high level languages for writing operating system kind of software, utilities, and tools because of the advantages they offered (they were relatively easy to use and understand).

When using a higher level programming language, there is an abstraction between the computer's architecture and various obscure details. This means that it is above the level of the machine and there is no direct manipulation of the hardware's memory.

High level languages are easier to read, learn, understand, and maintain which makes them an easier choice when working on a team. Commands have an English like syntax, and terms and instructions look more familiar and human-friendly compared to the symbolic format of Assembly.

Using high level languages also means writing less code to achieve something, whereas assembly programs were extremely long.

Thompson wanted to use a higher level language for Unix from the very start, but was limited by the DEC PDP-7.

As the project progressed and as more people started working working on it, using Assembly was not ideal. Thompson decided that Unix needed a high level system programming language.

In 1970 they managed to get funding for the bigger and more powerful DEC PDP-11 that had substantially more memory.

With a fast, structured, and more efficient high level programming language that could replace Assembly, everyone could understand the code and compilers could be made available to different machines.

They started exploring different languages for writing system software that they could use to implement Unix.

From B to C: The Need for a New Language

The aim was to create utilities – programs that add functionality – to run on Unix. Thompson initially attempted to create a FORTRAN compiler but then turned to a language he used before, BCPL (Basic Combined Programming Language).

BCPL was designed and developed in the late 1960's by Martin Richards. Its main purpose was for writing compilers and system software.

This language was slow and had many restrictions, so when Thompson started using it in 1970 for the Unix project on the DEC PDP-7, he made adjustments and modifications and ended up writing his own language, called B.

B had many of the features of BCPL but it was a smaller language, with a less verbose syntax and simpler style. It was still slow and not powerful enough to support Unix utilities, however, and couldn't take advantage of the powerful features of the PDP-11.

Dennis Ritchie decided to improve upon these two previous languages, BCPL and B. He took features and characteristics from each and added additional concepts. He created a more powerful language – C – just as powerful and efficient as Assembly. This new language overcame the limitations of its predecessors and could use the power of the machine in an effective way.

So in 1972 C was born, and the first C compiler was written and implemented for the first time on the DEC PDP-11 machine.

Screenshot-2021-02-09-at-12.51.23-PM

The C Programming Language

In 1973 Dennis Ritchie rewrote the Unix source code and most Unix programs and applications using the C programming language. This made it the standard implementation language of the operating system.

He reimplemented the Unix kernel in C, and almost all of the operating system (well over 90%) is written in this high level language. It mixes both high level readability features and the low level functionality, making it the perfect choice for writing an operating system.

Towards the late 1970's, C's popularity started to rise and the language started getting more widespread support and use. Up until that point, C was still only available for Unix systems and compilers were not available outside of Bell labs.

This increase in popularity came from not only the power C gave to the machine but also to the programmer. It also helped that the Unix operating system was gaining the same popularity at an even faster rate.

Unix stood out from what came before because of its portability and its ability to run on a variety of different machines, systems, and environments.

C made that portability possible and since it was the language of the Unix system, it gained more notariety – so more and more programmers wanted to try it out.

In 1978 Brian Kernighan and Dennis Ritchie co-wrote and published the first edition of 'the C programming language' book, also known in the programming community as 'K&R'. For many years this text was the go-to for C language description, definition, and reference.

Screenshot-2021-02-09-at-4.20.50-PM

In the 1980's, C's popularity skyrocketed as different compilers were created and comercialized. Many groups and organisations that were not involved in C's design started making compilers for every operating system and computer architecture structure. C was now available on all platforms.

As these organisations created compilers of their own, they started to change characteristics of the language to adapt to each platform the compiler was being written for.

There were various versions of C that had slight differences between them. While writing the compilers, these groups came up with their own interpretations of some aspects of the language, which were based on the first edition of the book 'C programming language'.

With all the iterations and adjustments, though, this book no longer described the language as it was, and the changes to the language started to cause problems.

The world needed a common version of C, a standard for the language.

The C Standard

To make sure there was a standard, machine independent definition of the language, ANSI (the American National Standards Institute) formed a committee in 1983. This committee was named the X3J11 committee, and their mission was to provide a clear, comprehensive definition and standardization of C.

After a few years, in 1989, the committee's work was done and made official. They defined a commercial standard for the language. That version of the language is known as 'ANSI C' or C89.

C was used all around the world, so a year later in 1990 the standard was approved and adopted by ISO, the International Standards Organization. The first version, C90, was called ISO/IEC 9899:1990.

Since then, many revisions to the language have taken place.

The second version of the standard, C99, was published in 1999 called ISO/IEC 9899:1999 and introduced new language additional features. The third version, C11, was published in 2011. The most recent version is the forth, C17, and is called ISO/IEC 9899:2018.

The Continuation of C

C forged a path for the creation of many different programming languages. Many of the modern high level programming languages that we use and love today are based on C.

Many of the languages created after C wanted to solve problems that C couldn't, or overcome some of the issues that limit C. For example, the most popular child of C is its Object Oriented extension C++ – but Go, Java, and JavaScript were also inspired by C.

C Language Characteristics and Why You Should Consider Learning C

C is an old language, but it still remains popular to this day, even after all these years.

It owes its popularity to the rise and success of Unix, but nowadays it has gone far beyond just being the 'native' language of Unix. It now powers most, if not all, of the world's servers and systems.

Programming languages are tools we use to solve specific computing problems that affect us on a large scale.

You don't need to know C to create web pages and web applications. But it comes in handy when you want to write an operating system, a program that controls other programs, or a programming utility for kernel development, or when you want to program embedded devices or any systems application. C excells at all these tasks. So let's look at some reasons to learn C.

It helps you understand how your computer works

Despite the fact that C is a general purpose programming language, it is mainly used to interact with low level machine functions. Besides the practical reasons behind learning the language, knowing C can help you understand how the computer actually works, what is happening underneath the hood, and how programs actually run and execute on machines.

Since C is considered the base of other programming languages, if you can learn the concepts used in this language it will be easier to understand other languages too later on.

Writing C code lets us understand the hidden processes happening in our machines. It allows us to get closer to the underlying hardware of the computer without messing with Assembly language. It also lets us get a handle on a multitude of low level tasks while staying readable like high level languages.

C is fast and efficient

At the same time, we don't lose the functionality, efficiency, and low level control of how code executes that Assembly provides.

Rememeber that each processor in every device's hardware has its own Assembly code that is unique to that processor. It's not at all compatible with any other processor on any other device.

Using C gives us a faster, easier, and overall less cumbersome approach to interacting with the computer at its lowest level. In fact, it has a mixture of both high and low level features. And it helps us get the job done without the hassle and fuss of long incomprehensible Assembly code.

So, C is as close as you can get to the computer's underlying hardware and is a great replacement for Assembly (the old standard for writing operating systems) when you're working with and implementing system software.

C is powerful and flexible

This close proximity to the hardware means that C code is written explicitly and precisely. It gives you a clear picture and mental model of how your code is interacting with the computer.

C does not hide the complexity with which a machine operates. It gives you a lot of power and flexibility, like the ability to manually allocate, manipulate, and write directly to memory.

The programmer does a lot of the heavy work and the language lets you manage and structure memory in an efficient way for the machine delivering high performance, optimisation, and speed. C lets the programmer do what needs to get done.

C is portable, performant, and machine-independent

C is also highly portabile and machine independent. Even though it is close to the machine and has access to its low level functions, it has enough abstraction from these parts to make code portability possible.

As Assembly instructions are machine specific, programs are not portable. One program written on one machine would have to be re-written to run on another. And that is hard to maintain for every computer architecture.

C is universal and programs written in it can be compiled and run across many platforms, architectures, and a variety of machines without losing any performance. This makes C a great choice for creating systems and programs where performance really matters.

C inspired the creation of many other programming languages

Many languages that are commonly used today, like Python, Ruby, PHP and Java, were inspired by C. These modern languages rely on C to work and be efficient. Also, their libraries, compilers, and interpreters are built in C.

These languages hide most of the details about how programs actually work underneath the hood. Using these languages, you don't have to deal with memory allocation and bits and bytes since there are more levels of abstraction. And you don't need this level of granular control with higher level applications where interaction with memory is error-prone.

But when you're implementing part of an operating system or embedded device, knowing those lower-level details and direct handling can help you write cleaner code.

C is a fairly compact language

Although C can be quite cryptic and hard to learn for beginners, it is actually a fairly small and compact language with a minimal set of keywords, syntax, and built-in functions. So you can expect to learn and use all of the features of the language when exploring how it works.

Even if you're not interested in learning how to program an operating system or a systems application, knowing C basics and how it interacts with the computer will give you a good foundation of computer science concepts and principals.

Also, understanding how memory works and is laid out is a fundamental programming concept. So understanding how the computer behaves on a deeper level and the processes that are happening can really help you learn and work with any other language.

There is a lot of C code in the devices, products, and tools that billions of us use in our everyday lives. This code powers everything from the world's supercomputers to the smallest gadgets.

C code makes embedded systems and smart devices of all kinds work. Some examples are household appliances like fridges, TVs, coffee makers, DVD players, and digital cameras.

Your fitness tracker and smart watch? Powered by C. The GPS tracking system in your car, and even traffic light controllers? You guessed it – C. And there are many examples of embedded systems used in the industrial, medical, robotics, and automobile industries that run on C code.

Another area where C is widely used is Operating Systems and kernel development. Besides Unix, for which the language was created, other major and popular Operating Systems are coded to some extent in C.

The Microsoft Windows kernel is scripted mostly in C, and so is the Linux kernel. Most supercomputers are powered by Linux, and so are most Internet servers. This means that C powers a large section of the Internet.

Linux also powers Android devices, so C code not only makes supercomputers and personal computers work, but smartphones too. Even OSX is coded to some extent in C, which makes Mac computers run on C, too.

C is also popular for developing desktop applications and GUIs (Graphical User Interfaces). Most Abode Applications we use for video and photo editing and graphic design (like Photoshop, Adobe illustrator, and Adobe Premiere) are coded with C or its successor, C++.

Compilers, interpreters, and assemblers for a variety of languages are designed and built with C – in fact these are some of the most common usages of the language.

Many browsers and their extensions are built with C, like Google Chromium and the Google file system. Developers also use C often in database design (MySql and Oracle are two of the most popular database systems built in C), and it powers advanced graphics in many computer games.

From this general overview, we can see that C and it's derivative C++ run a large part of the internet and the world at large. Many of the devices and technologies we use in our daily lives are written in or depend on C.

C Compilation Process: Write-Compile-Run

What is a program in c.

A computer program written in C is a human readable and ordered set of instructions that a computer executes. It aims to provide a solution to a specific computing problem and tell the computer to perform a certain task with a sequence of instructions that it needs to follow.

Essentially all programs are just plain text files stored on your computer’s hard drive that use a special syntax which is defined by the programming language you're using.

Each language has its own rules that dictate what you can write and what's considered valid, and what is not.

A program has keywords, which are specific words that are reserved and are part of the language. It also has literal pieces of data like strings and numbers. And it has words that follow the language’s rules, which we define and introduce to the language that don’t already exist (like variables or methods).

What is a compiler?

Programs are written by us and for us. They are meant to be understood by humans.

When we write programs in human readable form, we can understand them – but the computer may not be able to. Computers don’t directly understand programming languages, they only understand binary. So programs need to be translated into this other form so the computer can actually understand our program's instructions.

Programs in high level languages can be either compiled or interpreted. They use special pieces of software called compilers and interpreters, respectively.

What's the difference between an compiler and an interpreter?

Both compilers and interpreters are programs, but they're far more complex ones, and they act as translators. They take a program that's written in a human readable form and turn it into something that computers can make sense of. And they make it possible to run and execute programs on different computer systems.

Compiled programs are first converted into machine-readable form which means they are translated into machine code before they run. Machine code is a numerical language – binary instructions composed of sequences of 0s and 1s.

This compliation produces an executable program, that is a file containing the code in the machine language that the CPU (Central Processing Unit) will be able to read, understand, and execute directly.

After this, the program can run and the computer does what the program tells it to do. Compiled programs have a stronger correspondence with the underlying hardware and can more easily manipulate the computer's CPU and memory.

Interpreted programs, on the other hand, are not directly executed by the machine nor do they need to be translated into a machine language program. Instead, they use an interpreter that automatically and directly translates and executes each statement and instruction in the code line by line during run time.

C is a compiled programming language. This means that it uses a compiler to analyse the source code written in C and then turns it into a binary file that the computer's hardware can directly execute. This will be specific for each particular machine.

How to use the GCC Compiler with examples

Unix and Unix-like systems already have a C compiler built in and installed. This means that Linux and MacOS have a popular compiler built in, called the GCC Compiler (or GNU Compiler Collection).

In the rest of this section we'll see examples using this compiler and I've based these examples on a Unix or Unix-like system. So if you have a Windows system, make sure to enable the Windows Subsystem for Linux .

First, make sure you have the GCC compiler installed. You can check by opening your terminal and typing gcc --version in the prompt which is typically after the $ character.

If you're using MacOS and have not installed the command line developer tools, you will get a dialog box pop up asking you to install them – so if you see that, go ahead and do so.

Once you have those installed, open a new terminal session and re-type the gcc --version command. If you have already installed the command line tools, you should get the output below:

Screenshot-2021-02-17-at-3.02.52-PM

The term compiling alone is an abstraction and simplification, though, since in reality there are many steps happening behind the scenes. These are the finer lower level details that happen between us writing, compiling, and then running our C program. Most even happen automatically, without us even realising it.

How to write C source code

In order to develop C programs, we first need to have some type of text editor. A text editor is a program we can use to write our code (called our source code) in a text file.

For this you can use a command-line text editor like nano or Vim if you are comfortable with those.

You can also use an IDE (Integrated Development Environment), or text editor with IDE-like features (an integrated terminal, the ability to write, debug, run and execute our programs all in one place without leaving the editor, and much more).

One editor with these capabilities is Visual Studio Code, using the C/C++ extension . Throughout the rest of this tutorial we'll use VSCode.

Back in your terminal, go ahead and type the commands below to create a file where our C code will live.

So we have just created a plain text file, hello.c . This file will have code written in the C language meaning it will be a C program. This is indicated by the .c file extension which is a convention.

Inside it we can write any C program we like, starting from a very basic one like a program that outputs 'hello world' to the screen.

hello_world

In order to see what our code does, we have to run the program we have just written. Before running it, though, we have to first compile it by typing some commands in the terminal.

We can continue using the command line on our computer or we can use the integrated terminal in VSCode (by holding the control ~ keys at the same time a new terminal window opens).

So far we can see on the left panel that there is only one file in our cprogram directory, hello.c , which contains our C code.

The term 'compiling our C code' doesn't just happen in one step. It also involves some smaller actions that occur automatically for us.

As a reminder, when we refer to compiling, we typically mean that the compiler takes our source code as input (the code we wrote in C which has English like syntax), and translates it to produce machine code statements as output.

This machine code corresponds directly to our source code instructions, but it's written in a way the CPU can understand so it can carry out the instructions and execute them.

How C source code gets transformed into binary code

This is the general idea – but there are 4 smaller steps involved that happen in between. When we compile our code we are actually preprocessing, compiling, assembling, and linking it.

These steps start happening when we type the command gcc hello.c in the terminal which is the name of the compiler and the source code file, respectively.

If we wanted, we could alternate and customise that command by typing a more specific one like gcc -o hello hello.c , where:

  • -o stands for 'output this file'
  • hello is the name we ourselves specify for the executable program file we want to output that will be created, and
  • hello.c is the file the gcc compiler will take as input (which is the file where our source code lives and we want to compile).

Preprocessing in C

Another program that is part of the compiler conducts this first step – the preprocessor. The preprocessor does many things – for example, it acts as a ‘find and replace tool’ as it scans through our source code looking for special statements and searches for lines starting with a # .

Lines starting with a # ,like #include , are called preprocessor directives. Any line starting with a # indicates to the preprocessor that it must do something. In particular, it tells that it should substitute that line with something else automatically. We don't see this process, but it's happening behind the scenes.

For example, when the preprocessor finds the line #include <stdio.h> in our hello world program from earlier, the #include literally tells the preprocessor to include, by copying and pasting, all the code from that header file (which is an external library, stdio.h ) in the place of that statement in our own source code. So it replaces the #include <stdio.h> line with the actual contents of the stdio.h file.

Inside the <stdio.h> library there are function prototypes and definitions or hints. This way all the functions are defined so the computer recognizes them during compilation time, and we can use them in our program.

For example, the function printf(); is defined as int printf(const char *format,…); inside <stdio.h> . The same steps happen for other header files, that is files with a .h extension.

During the preprocessing step, our comments in our code are also removed and macros are expanded and replaced with their values. A macro is a fragment of code which has been given a name.

At this stage if there are no errors in our code, there should be no output in the terminal, which is a good sign.

We see no output, but a new file has been created with a .i extension which is still C source code. This file includes the output from the preprocessing, so it is called preprocessed source code. In this case a new file, hello.i , is generated but it won't be visible in our editor.

If we run the command gcc -E hello.c :

Screenshot-2021-03-02-at-8.29.46-PM

We will be able to see all the contents of this file (which is a lot) and the ending looks something like this:

Screenshot-2021-03-02-at-8.30.05-PM

If there are any mistakes with the correctness of our code or we're not following the semantics of the language, we'll see some errors and the compilation will end. We would have to correct the mistakes and start the process from the beginning.

Compiling in C

After the preprocessing step which produces preprocessed C source code, next we have to compile the code. This involves taking the code that is still source code and changing it into another intermediate form. We use a compiler for this step.

To review, a compiler is a program which takes as input the source code and translates it into something closer to the native language of computers.

When we refer to compiling we can either mean the entire process of translating source code to object code (machine code) or just a specific step in the whole compilation process.

The step we're discussing now is when compiling converts every statement of the preprocessed C source code program to a more computer friendly language. This language is closer to binary which the computer can actually directly understand.

This intermediate language is assembly code, a low level programming language used to control the CPU and manipulate it to perform specific tasks and get close access to the computer's memory. Remember assembly code from the history section?

Every CPU – the brains of the computer – has its own set of instructions. Assembly code uses specific statements and commands that directly correlate to those instructions and low level operations that a CPU performs and carries out.

So in this step of the compilation process, each statement in the preprocessed C source code in the file hello.i is translated by the compiler to the equivalent statement in assembly language at a lower level.

The output of this action creates a file ending in .s (so hello.s behind the scenes) that contains instructions in assembly.

By typing the command gcc -S hello.c we can view the contents and the somewhat incomprehensible assembly commands of the hello.s file that the compiler created (but that was not visible to us when we typed gcc hello.c alone).

If we look closely we'll see a couple familiar keywords and statements used in our C source code like main and printf :

Screenshot-2021-03-12-at-11.15.27-AM

Assembling in C

Assembling means taking the hello.s file containing assembly code statements as input and, with the help of another program that is executed automatically in the compilation process, assembling it to machine code instructions. This means it will have as output actual 0s and 1s, or binary format statements.

This step also happens behind the scenes, and it results in the final language the instructions in our source code are translated to. And now the computer can finally understand those instructions.

Each of the commands we wrote in our C source code were transformed to assembly language statements and finally into the equivalent binary instructions. All this happened just with the command gcc . Whew!

The code we wrote is now called object code, which a specific computer's CPU can understand. The language is incomprehensible to us humans.

People used to code in machine language, but it was a very tedious process. Any symbols that are non-machine code symbols (that is, anything that's not 0s and 1s) are hard to make sense of. Coding in such a language directly is extremely error-prone.

At this stage, another file is created with a .o extension (for object) – so in our case it'll be hello.o .

We can see the actual contents of the object file containing the machine level instructions with the command gcc -c hello.c . If we do this, we'll see the not human readable contents of hello.o :

Screenshot-2021-03-14-at-10.22.15-PM

Linking in C

In the images above, you might have noticed an a.out file in our directory.

This is the default step and file that gets created when we type the compiler command and our filename, gcc hello.c in our case.

If we had used the command gcc -o hello hello.c mentioned earlier, we would have seen a custom named hello executable program in place of a.out .

The a.out stands for assembly output . If we type ls in the terminal to list the files in our directory, we see that a.out even looks different from the rest:

Screenshot-2021-03-19-at-10.37.05-PM

Linking is the final stage of the compilation process where the final binary file hello.o is linked with all the other object code in our project.

So if there are other files containing C source code (like files included in our program that implement C libraries which are already processed and compiled, or another file we have written named, for example, filename.c besides hello.c ), this is when the object file filename.o will be combined with hello.o and the other object codes, linking them all together.

This forms one big executable file with the combined machine code, a.out or hello , which represents our program.

Since we're finally done compiling, the program is in its final form. And now we can execute and run the file on our machine by typing ./a.out . This means 'run the a.out file that is in the current directory', since ./ represents the folder we are in. We then see the output of our program in the terminal:

Screenshot-2021-03-19-at-10.18.20-PM

Whenever we make changes to our source code file, we have to repeat the process of compiling from the beginning in order to see the changes when we run the code again.

How to Write Hello World in C

A hello world program is a very simple one, but it's a tradition that also acts as a test message when you're first starting to learn how to code in a new programming language.

If you execute your "Hello World" program successfully, this lets you know that your system is correctly configured.

Hello_World_Brian_Kernighan_1978-1

A 'hello world' program contains the basic syntax for the language and we can break it down into smaller parts:

Header files in C

Header files are external libraries. This means they are a set of code already written by some developers for other developers to use.

They provide features that are not included at the core of the C language. By adding header files to our code, we in return get additional functionality that we can use in our programs.

Header files like include <stdio.h> end in the extension .h . In particular, a header file like stdio.h comes already built into the compiler.

The line include <stdio.h> is an instruction for the pre-written functions in the stdio.h library file which tells the computer to access and include them in our program.

stdio.h gives us the functionality standard input and standard output , which means we'll be able to get input and output from the user. We therefore get to use input/output functions like printf .

If you don't include the stdio.h file at the top of your code, the computer will not understand what the printf function is.

The main program in C

Here's the code:

This is the main starting function of a C program. The curly braces ( {} ) are the body which wraps all the code that should be in our program.

This line acts as a boilerplate and starting point for all C programs. It lets the computer know where to begin reading the code when it executes our programs.

Comments in C

Whatever we write after the // will not affect how our code runs and the computer will not take it into account during compilation and execution time.

Those two lines indicate that you're adding comments, which are notes to our future selves and to our coworkers. Comments can help us remember and remind others what a certain line of code does or why we wrote that code in the first place. It also reminds us what exactly is the purpose of that code when we come back to it the next day of even months later.

Output or printing to the console in C

printf("Hello world/n"); prints the phrase 'Hello world' to the console. We use printf when we want to say something and to see the output on the screen. The characters we want to output need to be surrounded by double quotes "" and parentheses () .

The /n is an escape character, which means that it creates a newline and tells the cursor to move to the next line when it sees it.

The ; indicates the end of of sentence and the end of that line of code.

Variables in C

Here's how we define a variable in C:

A data item that may take on more than one value during the runtime of a program.

In the simplest terms, you can think of variables as a named box. A box that acts as a storage place and location for holding different information that can vary in content.

Each box has a unique name which acts like a label put on the outside that is a unique identifier, and the information/content lives on the inside. The content is the variable's value.

Variables hold and point to a value, to some useful data. They act as a reference or abstraction to literal data. That data is stored in the computer's memory, and takes up an certain amount of space. It lives there so we can retrieve it later and use it in our programs when we need to.

As the name suggests, what variables point to can vary. They are able to take different values over time as information changes during the life of the program.

Variable Assignment in C

The process of naming a variable is called assignment. You set a specific value that is on the right, to a specific variable name that is on the left. You use the = or the assignment operator to do this.

As I mentioned, you can change a variable's value, so you can assign and reassign variables. When you reassign a value, the new value points to the variable name. So the value can be a new one, but the variable name stays the same.

How to declare vs initialise a variable in C

The C programming language is a strongly statically typed language, unlike many other modern programming languages.

In statically typed languages, you need to explicitly declare your variables to be of a certain data type. That way the compiler knows during compilation time if the variable is able to perform the actions it was set out and requested to do.

In dynamically typed languages, a variable can change between different data types without the need to explicitly define that data type.

So, when declaring a new variable in the C language, you need to define and specify what type it is, and what type of data its value holds.

A variable's type is the type of the value it holds. This lets the program and later the compiler know what kind of information it's storing.

To declare a variable, you specify the data type, and give a name to the variable . An optional step is to set an initial value. Do not forget the semicolon at the end, which ends the statement!

What is the difference between initialising and declaring a variable?

In summary:

int n; is declaring a variable. Declaring means we define a name for the variable and specify its type.

We don't necessarily need to specify a value for the variable just yet. This is enough, as declaring a variable tells the computer we want a variable to exist and we need to allocate some space in memory for it. The value can and will be stored at a later time.

When we do assign the variable a value later, there is no need to specify the data type again. We can also declare multiple variables at once.

If we declare a variable and assign it a value at once, this is called initialising the variable.

int n = 27; is initialising the variable. It refers to assigning an initial value which we can change later.

If the new value is the same data type, we don't need to include the data type, just the new value. If the data type is different, we will get an error.

Rules for naming variables in C

  • Variable names must begin either with a letter or an underscore, for example age and _age are valid.
  • A variable name can contain letters (uppercase or lowercase), numbers, or an underscore.
  • There can be no other special symbols besides an underscore.
  • Variable names are case sensitive , for example age is different from Age .

The scope of a variable in C

The scope of a variable refers to where the variable can be referenced and accessed from. It is essentially where the variable lives and is valid and how visible it is to the rest of the program.

Local scope

If a variable is declared within a set of culry braces, {} , like for example a specific function, that will be its scope and we can't access it and use it outside those braces in the rest of the program. The rest of the program won't know it exists.

Therefore it is not a good idea to declare variables that way since their scope and use is so limited which can lead to errors. This scope is called local scope.

Global scope

If variables are declared outside of functions, they have global scope. Having a global scope means they are visible within the whole program and can be accessed from anywhere.

But keep in mind that it can be difficult to keep track of them. Also, any changes we make to them along the way can get confusing since they can happen in any part and location of the program.

Data Types in C

Data types specify in what form we can represent and store information in our C programs. They let us know how that information will be used and what operations can be performed on it.

Data types also determine what type of data our variables can hold, as each variable in C needs to declare what data type it represents.

There are 6 data types built into the language. But you can convert between different types which makes it not as strongly typed.

Each of the data types requires a different allocation of memory and each data type can have different ranges up to which they can store values.

Adding keywords in front of a type name modifies and makes changes to the type. These keywords can be either unsigned or signed .

An unsigned keyword means that the type can only be positive and not negative, so the range of numbers start from 0. A signed keyword lets you make a number negative or positive.

Let's look at these data types in more detail.

The char data type in C

The most basic data type in C is char . You use it to store a single character such as letters of the ASCII chart like 'a', 'Z', or '!". (Notice how I used single quotation marks surrounding the single character – you can't use double quotes in this case.)

char also lets you store numbers ranging from [-128 to 127] and in both cases uses 1 byte of memory.

An unsigned char can take a range of numbers form [0-255]

The int data type in C

int is a an integer, a whole number, that can hold a positive or negative value or 0 but that has no decimal.

It is a value up to a certain number of bits. When you declare an int , it the computer allocates 4 bytes of memory for it. More specifically it uses at least 2 bytes but usually 4. 4 bytes of memory means it allocates 32 bits (since 1 byte = 8 bits). So an int has 2 32 possible values – more than 4 billion possible integers.

The range is of a -2 31 to 2 31 -1,specifically from [-2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647].

  • An unsigned int has still the same size as an int (4 bytes) but that doesn't include the negative numbers in the range of possible values. So the range is from 0 to 2 32 -1, more specifically [0 to 4,294,969,295]
  • A short int has smaller values than an int and allocates 2 bytes of memory. It allows for numbers in a range of [-32,768 to 32,767]
  • An unsigned short int uses again 2 bytes of memory and has a range of numbers from [0 to 65,535]
  • A long int is for when we need to use a larger number. It uses at least 4 bytes of memory, but usually 8 bytes with values from [-2,147,483,648 to 2,147,483,647]
  • An unsigned long int has at least 4 bytes of memory with a range from [0 to 4,294,967,295]
  • A long long int is an integer with more bits that's able to count to higher and larger numbers compared to ints and long ints. They use 8 bytes instead of 4 and so use 64 bits. This allows for a range from -2 63 to 2 63 -1 ,so for numbers from [-9,223,372,036,854,775,808 to 9,223,372,036,854,775,807]
  • An unsigned long long uses 8 bytes and has a range of numbers from [0 to 18,446,744,073,709,551,615]

The float data type in C

Floats are a floating point value which is a number with a decimal (also called a real number), with single precision. It allocates 4 bytes of memory.

The double data type in C

A double is a floating point value which has bigger values than that of a float. It can hold more memory – 8 bytes – compared to a float, and is double precision.

  • A long double is the largest size compared to floats and doubles, holding at least 10 bytes of memory, but can even hold up to 12 or 16 bytes.

And lastly, the void type essentially means nothing or no value.

Format Codes in C

Format codes or format specifiers are used for input and output in C.

These are a way to tell the compiler what type of data it takes in as input with a variable, and what type of data it produces as output when using the printf() function. The f in printf() stands for formated .

They act as a format code placeholder and substitute for variables. They let the compiler know in advance what type they are when the value of the standard output (that is, what we want to print) is not already known.

The syntax we use is % format specifier for data type :

There are different format specifiers for each data type we discussed earlier. Here are some of them:

Operators in C

Arithmetic operators in c.

Arithmetic operators are mathematical operators that perform mathematical functions on numbers. Operations can include addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

The most commonly used operators are:

  • + for addition
  • - for subtraction
  • * for multiplication
  • / for division
  • % for modulo division (calculating the remainder of the division)

Assignment operator in C

The assignment operator, = , assigns a value to a variable. It 'puts' a value into a variable.

In other words, it sets whatever is on the right side of the = to be the value of the variable on the left side of the = .

There are specific assignment operators for updating a variable by modifying the value.

In C, there are various ways we can update the values of variables. For example, if we want to increment the variable by 1 there are three possible ways to do so.

It is worth mentioning first that incrementing means to take the existing value of a variable, whatever value is on the right, and add 1 to it. The new value is then stored back to the variable and automatically updated.

The simplest way to increment or update is to have a variable called x with an initial value of 5 , so:

To add 1 to the variable x , we do x = x + 1 which means x = 5 + 1 .

The new value of x is now 6 , x=6 .

There is a shorthand for this operation, using a special syntax that increments variables.

Instead of writing x = x +1 we can write x += 1 .

An even shorter way is to use the increment operator, which looks like variable_name ++ , so in our case x++ .

The same goes for decreasing, that is decrementing, a variable by 1.

The three ways to do so are:

x = x-1 , x -= 1 , x -- (using the decrement operator) respectively.

Those are the ways to increment and decrement a variable by 1 in C. We are able to update a variable by taking its value and adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing that value by any other number and setting the result of that operation as the new value. Those operations would be += , -= , *= , and /= respectively.

So x = x * 5 or the shorthand x *= 5 will take the value of the variable x and multiply it by 5 and store it back to x .

Logical Operators in C

We use logical operators to make decisions in C. The result of an operation can be either true or false.

There is the logical AND operator, && . Operands on both the left and right sides of && need to be true for the condition to be true.

There is also the logical OR operator, || . At least one or both of the operands on the right and left sides of || need to be true for the condition to be true.

Lastly, there is the logical NOT . This inverts the value of the operand. If an operand is true, then the NOT operator makes the condition false and vice versa.

Comparison operators in C

Comparison operators are:

  • Greater than >
  • Greater than or equal to >=
  • Less than <
  • Less than or equal to =<

There is also an equality comparisson operator, == . Don't confuse this with = , the assignment operator.

We use the == to compare two values and test to see if they are equal or not. This operator asks the question 'Are these two equal?', whereas = assigns a value to a variable.

When using the equality comparisson operator and asking the above question, there is always a return value that can either be true or false , otherwsie knokn as a Boolean value in the context of computer programming.

Lastly, there is the inequality operator, != , that we use to test whether two values are NOT equal.

Functions in C

Functions are verbs, that is, small actions. They do something. They perform a particular, specific task.

They encapsulate a piece of behaviour that is meant to be used again and again. The purpose of functions is to have that behaviour written out just once somewhere so you can reuse it whenever you need to, at different times and in different places throughout a program. This makes your code simpler and better organised.

Functions exist to perform one task, serve a particular purpose, and be reused. And they can take in inputs and produce outputs.

Function arguments in C

The inputs that functions take in are called arguments. A function can have one or more arguments.

A common function in the C programming language is printf(); . This prints something to the screen. It's a function used to say something.

The parentheses () are the inputs to the function, where the arguments go in – that is, what we actually want to say and print to the screen. What is between the parentheses gets printed out.

In printf("Hello world!"); , Hello world! is the input to the printf function. Here, we are calling a function called printf and we are giving it an argument that is a string. This says literally, print 'Hello world! 'to the screen.

Function outputs in C

There are two types of function output:

First, outputs can just be something visual, an immediate visual effect, something quickly printed to the screen.

You can't do anything more with that output after the effect. Like in the case of printf("Hello world!"); , the output is the string "Hello world!" printed to the screen, and that's it. You can't use that string in some other way, because printf has no return value.

These types of functions are known as side effects , meaning they have an immediate observable effect without returning a value.

Also, a function like printf is a function invocation and in the stdio library is defined as int printf(const char *format,...); .

Second, the output can be reusable, and has a return value. A return value is a value passed back to the programmer and stored in a variable for later use.

In such cases, there is no immediate effect – nothing gets printed to the screen. The output is instead return to us, stored as information and saved in a variable.

How to Define a Method in C

There are three things you need to have in the first line, the decelerating line, when defining a function.

  • The return type

This is the very first keyword used, and how a function starts indicates the return value.

For example in a function like: void say_something(void) , the first void means that the function has no return value.

In another example with a different function, int main(void) , we specify and define its return data type, in this case an int . The function's output will be an int data type and will be returned to where the function is called.

  • The function name

The name can be anything we want, although it is best practice to name the methods after what they intend to do.

  • None or one or more arguments

These are the function's inputs, and the data type of those inputs.

In void say_something(void) , the void inside the parentheses is a keyword for the argument and a placeholder for 'nothing'. It means it takes In no inputs. In cases like this, the argument is also called a parameter.

Parameters are essentially variables declared in the function, inside the parentheses like the void keyword. They act as a placeholder to access the function input data, the arguments.

Parameters refer to the value being passed in to the method. This means that when we later call the function, we pass the actual values to it, the arguments to the function.

How to Call a Function in C

We can call a function like:

By writing the function's name, followed by any arguments in parentheses and a semicolon like say_hi(); . The say_hi function takes in no inputs and has no return value. When called it just prints 'hello' to the screen.

Another function like:

is called in the same way as the previous example. In this case, the square function take in an input and has a return value (both are int s). The input it takes in is the parameter called n , that returns an int when the function is called.

The word return specifies that what will get returned, the input n multiplied by itself.

For example, when the function is called square(3); , n acts as a variable that points to the parameter that has been passed in to the function, like 3 . It is like we have set n = 3 . The value that gets returned is 9 .

Functions are meant to be reused, so we can use it anytime we wish to square a number:

How to Use Boolean Expressions in C

A boolean expression is an expression that evaluates to one of two values, true or false. They get their name after the mathematician, philosopher, and logician George Boole.

Screenshot-2021-06-18-at-1.58.33-PM

We use boolean expressions to compare two values and they are particularly helpful in control flow.

Every non-zero value is true and 0 is false .

We can combine boolean expressions with the use of the different logical operators, like && (and), || (or) and ! (not) mentioned earlier in the article.

Different combinations of values and operators lead to different output results, which can be expressed in a truth table , a mathematical table used to represent logical equations wich result to 1 or 0 or their equivalent true or false .

When comparing two boolean values using the && (and) operator, both values have to equate to true for the combined experssion to be true.

For example if someone asks us "Do you want a pizza and a salad?", the only way for the expression to be true is for us to want both a pizza and a salad (so our answer is yes to both). If the answer to one of them is not true then the whole expression is false.

Truth Table for &&

Unlike && , the || operator lets us take action if one or both values are true. So this operator is not exclusive, either one of the comparissons has to be true for the experssion to evaluate to true or even both.

This is quite unique to computing, since in our example question used earlier, if instead of AND we changed it to OR, the statement 'Do you want pizza or a salad?' does not mean that you want both. You want one or the other, not necessarily both together.

Truth table for ||

Lastly, the ! (not) operator is used for negation, meaning it turns true to false and false to true .

How to Use Conditional Statements in C

Conditional statements take a specific action based on the result of a comparisson that takes place. The act of doing one thing if a particular condition is true and possibly a different thing if that particular condition turns out to be false is called control flow .

Certain parts of the program may not run depending on the results or depending on certain user input. The user can go down different paths depending on the various forks in the road that come up during a program's life.

Programs with conditional statements use if blocks primaraly. The if blocks use boolean expressions that can only be true or false and they make decisions depending on those resulting values. We denote an if block statement by using curly braces, {} , and indendation of the code that follows.

An if statement on its own is not that helpful especially as the programs grow larger and larger. So in that case the if statement is accompanied by an else statement.

These mean that ' if this condition is true do the following, else do this instead'. The else keyword is the solution for when the if condition is false and therefore doesn't run.

If we wish to chose between more than just two options and want to have a greater variety in statement and actions, then we can introduce an else if condition.

This means that 'If this condition is true, do this. If it is not, do this thing instead. However, if none of the above is true, finally do this instead.'

How to Use Loops in C

A loop is an isolated behavior or a specific set of instructions that are repeated a certain number of times, over and over again, until a condition is met. It is the same action, the same code, being repeated again and again.

While loops in C

Before they run any code, while loops have to check a condition. If it is met, the code runs. If not, the code doesn't take any action. So, code is not guaranteed to run even at least one time if a condition is not met.

There are different types of while loops. One of them is an infinite loop.

The while keyword is used along with a required boolean expression, true in this case (which always stays true ).

After printing the line of code inside the curly braces, it continuously checks wether it should run the code again. As the answer is always yes (since the condition it needs to check is always true each and every time), it runs the code again and again and again.

In this example the only way to stop the program and escape from the endless loop is running Ctrl + C in the terminal.

If the condition was false , it would never run the code inside the curly braces.

Another loop, is a loop that repeats something a certain number of times.

Do-while loops

Compared to the while loop, the do- while loop is guaranteed to run at least once and execute the code inside the curly braces at least one time.

It first does something and then checks a condition. This is useful when we want to repeat something at least once but for an unknown number of times.

In our example, the code will run at least one time and the statement will be printed at least once. Next, the value is incremented. It then checks if the value is less than 20, and if so, it runs the code again. It will stop running the code once the value being incremented each time is no longer less than 20.

Resources to continue learning C

This marks the end of this intoduction to the C programming language! Nice work for making it through to the end.

I hope this gave you an insight into the 'whys' and the 'hows' of the language and the fundamentals you need to know to start writing basic programs in C.

If you want to go more in depth, build some projects, and problem solve using C, give CS50 Introduction To Computer Science a go.

If you enjoy learning by reading books, I recommend the ones below:

  • C programming absolute beginners guide
  • Programming in C

If you enjoy learning by watching videos and coding along,check out the C Programming Tutorial for Beginners video on freeCodeCamp's YouTube channel.

Thanks for reading and happy coding!

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  • C All Exercises & Assignments

Write a C program to check whether a number is even or odd

Description:

Write a C program to check whether a number is even or odd.

Note: Even number is divided by 2 and give the remainder 0 but odd number is not divisible by 2 for eg. 4 is divisible by 2 and 9 is not divisible by 2.

Conditions:

  • Create a variable with name of number.
  • Take value from user for number variable.

Enter the Number=9 Number is Odd.

Write a C program to swap value of two variables using the third variable.

You need to create a C program to swap values of two variables using the third variable.

You can use a temp variable as a blank variable to swap the value of x and y.

  • Take three variables for eg. x, y and temp.
  • Swap the value of x and y variable.

Write a C program to check whether a user is eligible to vote or not.

You need to create a C program to check whether a user is eligible to vote or not.

  • Minimum age required for voting is 18.
  • You can use decision making statement.

Enter your age=28 User is eligible to vote

Write a C program to check whether an alphabet is Vowel or Consonant

You need to create a C program to check whether an alphabet is Vowel or Consonant.

  • Create a character type variable with name of alphabet and take the value from the user.
  • You can use conditional statements.

Enter an alphabet: O O is a vowel.

Write a C program to find the maximum number between three numbers

You need to write a C program to find the maximum number between three numbers.

  • Create three variables in c with name of number1, number2 and number3
  • Find out the maximum number using the nested if-else statement

Enter three numbers: 10 20 30 Number3 is max with value of 30

Write a C program to check whether number is positive, negative or zero

You need to write a C program to check whether number is positive, negative or zero

  • Create variable with name of number and the value will taken by user or console
  • Create this c program code using else if ladder statement

Enter a number : 10 10 is positive

Write a C program to calculate Electricity bill.

You need to write a C program to calculate electricity bill using if-else statements.

  • For first 50 units – Rs. 3.50/unit
  • For next 100 units – Rs. 4.00/unit
  • For next 100 units – Rs. 5.20/unit
  • For units above 250 – Rs. 6.50/unit
  • You can use conditional statements.

Enter the units consumed=278.90 Electricity Bill=1282.84 Rupees

Write a C program to print 1 to 10 numbers using the while loop

You need to create a C program to print 1 to 10 numbers using the while loop

  • Create a variable for the loop iteration
  • Use increment operator in while loop

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Mastering the C Programming Language: Comprehensive Guide

CodeLikeAGirl

Hey there, ? So, today, let’s talk about this one language that has set the foundation for most modern programming languages – the C programming language . Now, I know what you’re thinking. “Isn’t that like, super old?” Well, yeah, it’s been around the block a time or two, but honey, it’s still got the moves! With C, you can do anything from creating operating systems to cracking code in competitive programming. Pretty neat, huh? ?

Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Mastering C isn’t a cakewalk. But don’t you worry! Your girl’s got your back. With my Comprehensive Guide , you’ll be sauntering down C-Lane like it’s a stroll in Lodhi Gardens.

Table of Contents

Understanding the basics of c programming language.

Delving into the world of C , we’ll first provide an overview to familiarize you with this powerful tool. We’ll then take a journey back in time to learn about the brief history and early days of C, providing context to its development and relevance. Finally, we’ll explore why C could be the perfect choice for your first foray into programming. This language, with its deep roots and widespread use, promises to provide a solid foundation for your coding journey. Let us persuade you with emotional appeals, logical arguments, and solid evidence, and guide you towards making the perfect choice.

Understanding the Basics of C Programming Language

Overview of the C Programming Language

So, now we’re moving onto the next biggie, right? The nitty-gritty of a certain coding dialect that’s C .

Now hold up, why C? Well, C isn’t just an alphabet, it’s a power-packed language. It’s like, imagine you’re baking a cake, and C is your basic flour. You can’t miss it, right? ?

C is efficient, lets you get up close and personal with your computer’s inner workings, and it’s everywhere ! It’s in your operating system, in your web browser, even in your microwave. Crazy, right? And guess what? It’s not that hard to learn either.

It’s like driving a manual car.

The History and Early Days of C

So, you’re all buckled up and ready to dive into the world of programming, huh? ? Let’s hit the rewind button and take a quick trip down memory lane…

Did you know C was born in the early 1970s ? Such a retro vibe, right? This was a time when the Beatles ruled the charts and bell-bottoms were the rage. It was developed at the legendary Bell Labs by Dennis Ritchie . Yup, the same place that’s a birthplace to loads of other revolutionary inventions.

Now, why should you pick C as your first language? Simple! It’s like learning the ABCs before you start writing essays. It forms the foundation of many modern languages.

Why Choosing C as Your First Programming Language

Oh my gosh , diving right into it, ain’t we? ? So, you’re probably thinking, “Why should I start my coding journey with C?” Well, let me tell y’all something. C is the mother of all languages . It’s like the root from which different programming languages sprout. I mean, Java, Python, C++, all have their syntax influenced by C, don’t they?

Starting with C helps you grasp the fundamental concepts of programming like loops, array, and functions. It’s like learning the ABCs before writing essays, you get me? Plus, it’s super efficient and gives you a closer understanding of how your computer works. So, why not kick off your coding journey with C? Sounds pretty rad, right?

Getting Started with C Programming Language

Embarking on your journey into the world of programming? Let’s make it fun and easy! Set up your development environment first, which is like building a creative workspace for your coding journey. Next, let’s craft your very first “Hello World” program, a classic initiation into any coding language. You’ll be amazed at your own ability to communicate with a computer! Once you get the hang of it, we’ll delve into understanding the main function in C. It’s like the heart of your program, pumping life into your code. Trust me, mastering the main function will empower you to create wonders!

Setting up Your C Development Environment

Okay, now that we’ve gotten our feet wet with the basics, let’s dive right into the pool of C coding ! ??‍?

To get started, you gotta set up your dev space. You heard me, your C development environment . This is the cozy little nest where all your code will hatch. ?

You might be sitting there thinking, “But I have no clue how to do that!” Don’t worry, babe, we’ve all been there. It’s as simple as downloading and installing a C compiler. You’ve got loads of options, but GCC or Mingw-w64 are a good place to start.

Writing Your First ‘Hello World’ Program in C Programming Language

So, we’ve gotten the basics down pat, yeah? Now, let’s dive into the really fun stuff – writing your first ‘hello world’ program in C! ?

Here’s a little secret: Your first program, irrespective of the language, is probably going to be a ‘hello world’ program. C is no different. It’s like a rite of passage, you know?

Alrighty then, ready to create your first magic spell in C? Let’s go!

Write this down:

See that there? That’s your <i>main function</i>. The place where all the magic happens! It’s like the heart of your program.

Understanding the Main Function in C

So, waving goodbye to basics, let’s waltz into our main topic, the main function . Now, why is it named so? Well, the main function is like the heart of your C Programming Language, the starting point of execution. It’s the boss lady, you know! ? It calls all other functions and elements into action. No kidding!

Imagine you’re a stage director. Your actors are the variables and commands in C. The main function is your script. Just like without a script, there’s no play, without the main function , there’s no running program. Simple, right?

Now, every main function has two parts – the parameters and the body.

Deep Dive Into Data Types in C Programming Language

Let’s embark on a delightful journey to delve into basic data types in C, a fundamental yet powerful concept. We’ll also examine the intriguing double data type , unveiling its in-depth features and utilities. This exploration will leave you with a firm grip over this subject! As we advance, we’ll learn the art of naming variables , which is as exciting as creating a character in a story! Imagine having the power to give a name and an identity to your data. So, buckle up and let’s start this interesting exploration of double data typ and so much more!

Deep Dive Into Data Types in C

Understanding Basic Data Types in C

Alright, my programming pals, now that we’ve gotten our feet wet with C , let’s dive deeper into the ocean of knowledge. ?‍♀️? You ready? Let’s talk about the ABCs of C – Data Types .

Hold up, you’re thinking ‘Hey, didn’t we just talk about this?’ Well, kind of, but there’s more to it. The beauty of C is its simplicity, and that extends to the types of data we can manipulate.

Let’s start with the basics. We’ve got integers (whole numbers), floats (decimal numbers), and chars (characters). Simple, right? But the magic lies in how you use them.

Double Data Type in C: a Closer Look

Alrighty folks, we’ve just had a little chit-chat about getting started with C, ain’t it? Now, let’s dive headfirst into something more specific, shall we? So, what’s next on the agenda? Oh, I see! We’re taking a closer peek at the double in C Programming Language.

Now, what in the world is that, you ask? Well, it’s nothing but a type that deals with decimal numbers. Imagine having the power to hold up to 15 decimal places in your hands! Wowza, ain’t that cool?? But hold up, there’s a twist – it gobbles up more memory than the basic types. You gotta be wise when to use it, right?

Naming Variables and Data Types in C Programming Language

Well, aren’t you just revved up from our last deep dive into C coding? ? Now, let’s journey further and explore a topic that’s absolutely crucial for understanding and mastering C Programming Language. Buckle up, because we’re venturing into the world of naming conventions and categories of data in C!

Oh, darling! Trust me, the way you christen your variables can be the game changer between a smooth ride and a bumpy one. Think of it as naming your kids. You wouldn’t want them to have confusing names, right? So, don’t do that to your variables either. Stay organized, keep ’em simple and easy to understand.

Remember, naming is power ! Choose wisely.

Understanding Operators in C

Dive deep into the world of C with the assignment operator , a handy tool that simplifies your coding journey. It’s your trusty sidekick, making variable assignments a breeze. But wait, there’s more! Ever wondered how C compares variables? Comparison operators are the answer, enabling you to analyze and make decisions based on variable relationships. And last but not least, we will delve into the realm of compound assignment operators . These multitaskers perform an operation and assignment in one step, making your code more efficient. Discover the power of these operators, making your C coding experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Understanding Operators in C

Role of Assignment Operator in C

Phew! After conquering the mountain of datatypes, let’s dive into the ocean of operators. ?‍♀️ Starting with the assignment operator , a superstar in C’s league of operators.

The assignment operator in C, represented by the “=” symbol, has a pretty straightforward job. It’s like the diligent courier guy who takes a value from one place and delivers it to another. He picks up a value and assigns it to a variable.

Now, you might think, “Oh, that’s simple!” But here’s where it gets interesting. The assignment operator is also a bit of a chameleon.

An Overview of Comparison Operators

Alright! Now that we’ve swum deep into the ocean of data types, let’s sail towards the captivating island of comparison operators ! ?

Comparison operators, dear friends, are like the eyes of the programming world. They help us see and compare values! Isn’t that cool?

Know what else is cool? The assignment operator . It’s like the hand that gives or assigns a value to a variable. Now, don’t confuse this buddy with the assignement operator . Yeah, it’s a common typo, but guess what? It doesn’t exist in C Programming Language! ?

But back to comparison operators – these guys are so critical in making decisions. They’ll tell you if one value is greater, less, equal, or not equal to another.

A Detailed Look Into Compound Assignment Operators

So, after having a roller-coaster ride through the world of Data Types in C, let’s jump onto the thrill of understanding one of the most fascinating topics in coding – Compound Assignment Operators . ?

Think about the assignment operator as a go-getter friend who is always ready to take on new responsibilities. Just like that friend, the assignment operator is always ready to take on new values and constantly evolves. It’s like a chameleon, changing its color according to the situation.

Now, let’s take a deeper dive into the world of Compound Assignment Operators . These operators are a shorter way of assigning values. For instance, instead of writing a = a + 5; we can simply write a += 5; . Easy peasy, right?

Mastering Control Flow in C Programming Language

Mastering control flow in C is a breeze once you understand its key components. Conditional statements hold the power to direct your code’s journey, making it crucial to grasp their usage. By comprehending conditional statements, you’ll create code that can make decisions. Next, we’ll explore the break statement . This mighty tool allows you to take control and halt loops at their most optimal point. Finally, we’ll delve into the world of the ternary operator , a compact, efficient way to write conditional statements. Embrace these concepts, and you’ll be setting the pace of your code like a pro!

Mastering Control Flow in C Programming Language

Understanding Conditional Statements in C Programming Language

So, moving on from the maze of operators, let’s dive right into the whirlpool of conditional statements ! Quite the adventure, isn’t it? ?

You might be wondering, what’s the big deal with these conditional statements in C anyway? Well, let me tell you, they’re pretty darn important !

Imagine you’re throwing a bash, and you’ve got a door policy – only those who know the secret password can enter. In your code, this decision-making is all thanks to conditional statements .

They’re like the bouncers of your C code, deciding who gets to party and who gets the boot. They use the ternary operator and other elements to make these decisions.

But hold up!

Getting Familiar with the Break Statement in C Programming Language

Alright, jumping right in from where we left off – operators, we now land into the terrain of control flow in C. Today, we’re going to get cozy with the break command. ?

Now, remember how we use conditional statements to control the flow of our code? Well, the break command is like a secret shortcut. It’s a getaway car that allows you to zoom right out of a loop, no questions asked! It’s like saying, “I’m done here, let’s move on.”

But hey, don’t just take my word for it. Try it out! Write a loop, add a condition and then let the break command do its magic.

The Role and Usage of Ternary Operator in C Programming Language

And just like that, we’re done with operators! Now, let’s take a sharp turn and dive into the deep end of control flow . Let’s start with the ternary operator —a lifesaver when it comes to making your code crisp and clean. ?

Have you ever felt like conditional statements can sometimes be too verbose? That’s where the ternary operator comes into play! It’s a slick way to represent simple conditional statements —all in one line. Picture this: You’re at a fork in the road. To the left is a long, winding path (representing if-else statements). To the right is a short, straight path (that’s our hero, the ternary operator). Which one would you choose?

Understanding Loops in C Programming Language

Starting off our journey to understand loops in C, let’s focus on the dowhile loop . This loop offers a simple, yet powerful tool for tasks requiring repetition. Moving on, we’ll delve into the practical application of the dowhile loop in performing repetitive tasks efficiently. This will demonstrate how this loop can save you time and effort. Next, we’ll explore the crucial Loop Control Statements in C Programming Language . These control statements will help you master the dowhile loop and flexibly control how your programs run. So, gear up to dive into the world of dowhile loop and become an efficient programmer.

Understanding Loops in C Programming Language

Introduction to do…while Loop in C

Alrighty, then! Having a ball with control flow? Now, let’s jump on to the next joy ride – Loops, specifically the dowhile loop . ?

So, what’s the deal with this loop, you ask? Well, it’s like your favourite Bollywood song on repeat, but with a twist. It runs a piece of code once, and then continues to run the same code as long as the given condition is true. Why would you want to use it? This loop is your bestie when you don’t know how many times the loop needs to run, but you know it should run at least once.

Using Loops for Repetitive Tasks

Alright, mates, moving on from the control flow topic, let’s dive into the slightly more intriguing aspect of C – Using Loops for Repetitive Tasks . ?

Loops, yaar, they’re like your best buddies when it comes to repetitive tasks. Just picture this – you’re stuck in a boring task, doing the same thing over and over again. Ugh , sounds dull, right? Now imagine, having a friend who willingly does it all for you. Sweet, ain’t it? That’s what loops do in programming!

Loops help you say goodbye to monotonous tasks and yes to efficiency. They are your one-way ticket to minimizing code and maximizing output .

Loop Control Statements in C

Shifting gears from mastering control flow, let’s plunge into the dizzying world of loop control statements in C. ?

Now, you’re probably thinking – “What’s the big deal about loop control statements?” Well, my dear, they’re the VIPs of repetitive tasks! They’re like the DJ at a party, setting the vibe with their never-ending beat.

In C, we have two main loop control statements – continue and break – which play crucial roles in managing loop execution. The continue statement skips the current iteration and jumps to the next, while the break statement can terminate the entire loop prematurely.

Think of these as the “fast-forward” and “stop” buttons on your old cassette player.

Mastering Input/output Functions in C

Mastering I/O functions in C is greatly achievable! Imagine yourself easily manipulating the printf function , displaying professional-level results. You’ll delight in its power to format and output data. Equally empowering is the scanf function , your key to unlocking meaningful user input . This function is the gatekeeper of user interactions, translating them into executable commands. But we don’t stop there! Dive deeper into advanced I/O techniques , exploring beyond the standard IO functions. Your journey towards C Programming Language mastery is a thrilling adventure, propelled by your command of these essential functions. Your code will thank you, and so will your future self!

Using Printf Function for Output in C

Alright, my coding comrades! ✨ Let’s put a full stop to the loop narrative and open a new page that speaks of the magic of the printf function . ?

Now, who wouldn’t appreciate a good chat, right? ?️ It’s the same with our code – it has to talk to us! And among the many ways it can do that, the printf function is like a superstar on the stage. ? It’s the one that gives voice to our code, allowing it to share with us all its secrets, its victories, its challenges.

It’s like having an intimate tête-à-tête with your code, with the printf function acting as the translator, transmitting the code’s thoughts right onto your screen.

Using Scanf Function for User Input in C

Waving bye to the loops, let’s march ahead, shall we? Now, we’re going to dive into the world of input/output functions . And today’s superstar is none other than the scanf function ! ?

See, in the realm of coding, communication is crucial. Your program needs to interact with you, right? And the scanf function is like a friendly postman, delivering your messages to the program. It’s like saying, “Hey, Mr. Program, here’s some info for you!” And just like that, your sweet little program gets the message. ?

Now, wouldn’t you rather have a chatty program than a silent one? Think about it. It’s not rocket science, is it?

Advanced I/o Techniques in C

So, we’ve just covered loops in C, right? But what’s next ? The glamorous world of advanced I/O techniques in C Programming Language, of course! ?

I mean, come on, who doesn’t love a bit of advanced stuff? It’s like spicing up your bland dal with a dash of masala. It’s challenging but also incredibly satisfying when you get it right.

Just think about it , it’s like being able to communicate with your computer at a more intimate level. With advanced I/O techniques, you can read files, write files, and even handle errors – just like a pro! You can validate the data you receive and produce more accurate and reliable programs.

Digging Deeper Into C Programming

Dive deeper into the world of C programming and uncover its intimate relation to assembly language . This connection is crucial as it unveils the intricacies of the language’s craftsmanship. Moving forward, we’ll delve into related languages to C and understand how they share elements, yet stand distinct. This exploration will broaden your programming horizon, and strengthen your grasp on C Programming Language. Lastly, we’ll venture into the role of C in intermediate language development. These intermediate languages serve as bridges, translating high-level languages to assembly language. With C taking center stage in their development, a deep understanding of its role is pivotal.

Understanding C’s Relation to Assembly Language

Alrighty then, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of C Programming Language, shall we? Now that we’ve mastered input/output functions, we’re gonna delve deeper.

Assembly language , my dear friends, shares a close bond with C Programming Language. Yeah, you heard it right! It’s like they’re siblings from the same programming family. The beauty of C is that it’s low-level, yet high-level. It’s like the chameleon of C programming languages! It can chill with assembly languag and also have a hearty conversation with related languages .

Assembly language, it’s like the middle child, an intermediate language that bridges the gap between high-level language and machine code. Now, doesn’t that sound cool?

Exploring Related Languages to C

So, my lovelies, we’ve tackled the behemoth that is Input/Output Functions in C Programming Language, huh? Wipes sweat off forehead. ? Well, it’s time to dive right back into the deep end!

Have you ever stopped to wonder about the kinship between C and other languages? ? Well, darlings, it’s time we explored that. C has a close relationship with both assembly language and intermediate language . They all have their own unique charm, like siblings in a family, each with their own distinct quirks.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, “But why should I care about these other languages?

The Role of C in Intermediate Language Development

Alright, buddy! ? We’ve just wrapped up the nitty-gritty of input/output functions, now let’s roll up our sleeves and dig deeper into the world of C. Next on our platter is understanding the mammoth role C plays in Intermediate Language Development .

Now, you might be wondering – what’s this hullabaloo about C and Intermediate Language Development? Well, lemme spill the beans. You know assembly language ? Yeah, that low level language that has us all in knots. It’s like learning Sanskrit in a world where everyone speaks Hinglish, right? ?

Here’s the kicker – C Programming Language acts as our interpreter! Yeah, you heard that right.

Exploring the C Standard Library

Embark on an exciting journey to Explore the C Standard Library . Beginning with an easy-to-understand introduction to header files , you’ll comprehend their pivotal role in C coding. Then, we’ll unveil the power and versatility of standard functions in the C library, essential tools that’ll supercharge your coding skills. Ultimately, we’ll dive into advanced topics, expanding your understanding and command of the C library. So, why wait? Discover the magic within the C Standard Library today!

Mastering Input/output Functions in C

An Introduction to Header Files in C

Alrighty then, folks! Let’s march ahead and take the plunge into the intriguing world of Header Files in C Programming Language. ? You know, those files ending with .h? They are the unsung heroes of the C cosmos! They are not just any random files; they serve as the backbone for our code, holding together all the function declarations and macro definitions.

Think of them as the chef’s secret spice mix that add flavor to your code! Every time you call a function, it’s like dipping into this spice mix. The better your understanding of these files, the more delicious your code will be. So, let’s get started, shall we?

Standard Functions in C Library

So, we’ve dug up some real gold in the trenches of C programming, haven’t we? But now, let’s leave the trenches behind and venture into the library. The C Standard Library , that is! ?

Now, don’t let the word ‘library’ intimidate you. It’s not like you need to be a librarian or anything. But, you do need to know some things. One of them being, Standard Functions .

Standard functions in the C library are like your secret weapons in coding. They’re pre-written code that make your life a whole lot easier. Think about it, why reinvent the wheel when you can simply use one that’s already been perfected?

Advanced Topics in C Library

Alrighty folks, done digging deep into the soil of C programming, have we? ? Let’s now venture into the unknown – the advanced topics in the C library!

I can tell you, it’s gonna be like walking on the moon ! ? This part of the journey will introduce you to advanced functions that are as exciting as they are essential.

Ever wondered about those bits and bytes and how to manipulate them? Or maybe how to handle signals and process control? Well, guess what? The C Programming Language library has got you covered! It’s like your genie in a bottle, ready to grant your code-fueled wishes.

But here’s the thing, guys. Just like with any genie, you gotta know how to make your wishes.

Working with Strings in C

Welcome to the captivating world of Working with Strings in C ! Our journey begins with an engaging Introduction to Strings in C , where you’ll learn the essentials and more. We then move onto Manipulating Strings in C Programming Language , a subtopic that will empower you to tweak and transform strings with confidence and ease. Lastly, we delve into the realm of Advanced String Handling Techniques in C , exploring the more complex aspects of this chapter strings. Each step of this journey equips you with the tools to master and create dynamic code. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting adventure?

Introduction to Strings in C

So, after getting our hands dirty with the exciting world of the C library, let’s now dive into a whole new topic: Strings in C . Now, why should you care about strings, you might ask? Well, let me tell you, my dear reader, strings are like the lifeblood of any C program. Without them, how would we store and manipulate text? How would we make sense of all the data we’re dealing with?

Strings, my friends, are an array of characters. They are used to store text in C, and boy, they sure do a fantastic job at it! With strings, you can store anything from a single character to a whole novel!

Manipulating Strings in C

Whew! After delving deep into the C Standard Library, it feels like we’ve journeyed through an intriguing maze, doesn’t it, fam? ? But wait, there’s more to explore! Let’s now pivot to the magic of Manipulating Strings in C Programming Language .

Think about it. Isn’t it mind-blowing that a string in C is just an array of characters? ? And each of these characters can be manipulated to create powerful programs. From displaying messages to storing data, the possibilities are endless! ?

I encourage you, my fellow code warriors, to play around with strings. Experiment with string functions like strcat , strcpy , strlen , and many more. Trust me, it’s a whole new world out there!

Advanced String Handling Techniques in C

So, darlings , let’s leave the standard library behind and dive into the world of Strings in C . Now, don’t you worry your pretty heads, this isn’t going to be anything like sewing strings onto a piece of cloth, but it does require a certain finesse. ?

Today, we’re going to up our game and dive right into Advanced String Handling Techniques in C . It’s like learning to drive a car. You’ve got the basics down, now it’s time to learn how to navigate those tricky lanes and unexpected potholes. You know, like handling string concatenation, character replacement, and even string reversal if you’re feeling a bit adventurous.

Witness the power of C Programming Language, without the fuss of complex syntax.

File Handling in C

Delve into the world of file handling with a friendly guide to the fundamentals, starting with a captivating Introduction to File Handling in C . You’ll discover the power of reading and writing files, a vital aspect of any software application. Next, we’ll explore the art of Reading and Writing Files in C , and witness how it transforms the way you manage data. No stone will be left unturned as we discuss Advanced File Handling Techniques in C . Here, we’ll unleash the full potential of file handling, with advanced techniques that will make your programs more dynamic and efficient.

Introduction to File Handling in C Programming Language

Alrighty, peeps! So, we’ve had our fun with strings and cozied up real good with them, right? So, what do you say we kick it up a notch now? ? Let’s dip our toes into some more serious stuff, shall we? I’m talking about file handling in C .

When you think about it, file handling is like the magic wand in a programmer’s toolkit. It’s what lets us read, write, and do all sorts of funky stuff with files. Without it, we’d be pretty much stuck, wouldn’t we?

Reading and Writing Files in C

Alright, my coder pals! After we’ve had our fun with strings in C, let’s drive straight into the fascinating world of file handling in C. ?

Have you ever wondered how your favorite computer games remember your high scores? How does your photo editing software recall your favorite filters? It’s all because of the magic of reading and writing files in C Programming Language!

Imagine this, you’re penning down a lovely poem on a piece of paper, and suddenly, your pen runs out of ink! The same can happen in C – when you’re writing to a file, you might run out of disc space. That’s why it’s important to check if the file was opened successfully before you start writing.

But don’t worry!

Advanced File Handling Techniques in C Programming Language

And just like that, we’re waving goodbye to the world of strings and diving headfirst into the sea of files. Now, who’s ready to decode the mysteries of advanced file handling techniques in C ? ??

Y’know, often when we’re working with files, it’s not just about opening and closing them. Nah, we’re better than that! We need to get our hands dirty with functions like fseek() , rewind() , and ftell() . These babes are the real deal when it comes to maneuvering around files.

Think of fseek() as your personal file GPS, letting you zoom to any part of the file you fancy.

Additional Resources for Learning C Programming Language

Delving deep into additional topics of learning C can be rewarding. We recommend a variety of related books that will provide important information to bolster your knowledge. Remember, mastering C requires more than just reading; it’s vital to put theory into practice. The Importance of Practice in Learning C cannot be overstated. With consistent practice, you’ll swiftly grasp complex concepts. Moreover, when faced with perplexing problems, don’t despair. There are numerous resources for problem-solving in C that can help you overcome obstacles. Be aware though, problem filtering reviews can occur, so ensure you’re accessing quality resources.

Recommended Books on C Programming Language

Alright, folks! Now that we’ve conquered the topic of file handling , it’s time to dive deeper into our C journey. This ocean is vast and deep, and to navigate it, we’re going to need some trusty guides. ??

Let’s chat about books that could be your best pals on this journey. I know, I know, books might sound old-school, but they have a charm that online resources can’t match. There’s nothing quite like holding a book, flipping through its pages, and inhaling that unique aroma of ink and paper. ??

One of my absolute favorites is “C Primer Plus” by Stephen Prata.

The Importance of Practice in Learning C

So, after we’ve cracked the code on handling files in C, let’s navigate into another significant aspect of this journey – practicing C. You know what they say, right? Practice makes perfect. ?

Just like mastering the art of making the perfect chai, learning C requires repetition, trial, and error. You can’t just skim through a book or breeze through a few online tutorials and call it a day. Nope, it doesn’t work that way. ?‍♀️

Imagine trying to learn how to ride a bike by just reading about it. Sounds absurd, doesn’t it? ? That’s because hands-on practice is the key to retaining knowledge and enhancing your coding skills.

Resources for Problem-Solving in C

So, you’ve got a grip on file handling in C, huh? ? That’s terrific! But honey, the journey doesn’t stop here. Let’s dive deeper into the ocean of C programming , and explore additional topics, shall we? ?

The beauty of learning is in the doing, hands-on experience! And where do you get that from? Problem-solving ! That’s right! There are some amazing platforms out there that provide resources for problem-solving in C. Websites like GeeksforGeeks, CodeChef, and HackerRank are just a click away. They offer loads of problems you can solve using C, ranging from easy-peasy to mind-boggling ones!

But why problem-solving, you may ask?

User Reviews on Learning C

Navigating through resources to learn C can be challenging, but top reviews on C courses can effectively guide you. These reviews can provide invaluable insights, from product details to firsthand experiences. Additionally, customer reviews on C resources can be a goldmine of information, offering the best and worst aspects of each course. However, remember that answers not the answer ; your unique learning needs should dictate your choice. Learning to sift through these reviews effectively can be crucial in your journey. Remember, in the world of C learning, top examples and reviews are your guiding lights.

Top Reviews on C Programming Courses

After dwelling on additional resources, let’s pivot to the real deal , the top reviews on C Programming courses. So, y’all might be wondering, “What’s the buzz about these courses?” Well, let me spill the beans!

Users are raving about how these courses are perfectly balancing the theory and practical aspects, making them the go-to resources for newbies and pros alike! And guess what? They’re also praising the abundance of real-world examples, which trust me, is a lifesaver when you’re getting your hands dirty with code.

So, get jazzed up, folks! It’s time to dive into these courses and up your C game. Trust the reviews, they don’t lie!

Filtering Through Customer Reviews on C Resources

Alrighty then! So, we’ve explored the vast sea of resources available for learning C. Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty – filtering through customer reviews on these resources. Now, you might wonder, “Why bother?” Well, think of it as your compass in this vast ocean. Reviews can help you navigate towards the most effective learning material. It’s kinda like having your own personal guide who’s been there, done that!

But here’s the catch – not all reviews are created equal. It’s crucial to consider the credibility of the reviewer, their experience level, and their learning style. Why, you ask? Well, a beginner’s perspective might differ from a seasoned pro, right? And we all have unique ways of learning.

How to Utilize Reviews for Effective Learning

Here’s the tea, folks, after you’ve sifted through a mountain of reviews for resources on C, the real question is – how do we make the most of them for effective learning?

Well, it’s not rocket science! Just keep an eye out for common patterns. Are there resources that multiple folks rave about? Or perhaps a book that’s got a bunch of thumbs down? These nuggets of info are worth their weight in gold.

Also, remember to read reviews with a pinch of salt. Don’t let them sway you completely. After all, everyone has different learning styles, right? Your experience might be totally different from Joe’s or Neha’s.

Innovation in C Programming Language

Step into the innovation hub of the tech world and explore the power of C. Its role in shaping modern technology cannot be overstated. It’s not just a language, it’s the backbone of technological innovation. How C Drives Innovation in Programming is a testament to its impact, powering new ideas, and transforming the tech landscape. This influence permeates all the way to enduser applications , a testament to C’s Impact on End-user Applications . From embedded systems to game development, C’s reach is universal. So, let’s delve deeper into understanding the magic of C .

The Role of C in Modern Tech: an Overview

Now, shifting gears from user reviews, let’s dive into the depths of C’s significance in the contemporary tech realm.

C, my friends, is the beating heart of today’s tech infrastructure. It’s the backbone that holds everything together. From the operating systems we use daily, like Linux and Windows, to the IoT devices that make our lives easier, C Programming Language is there, silently running the show.

Think about it. Without C, we wouldn’t have the efficient, high-speed tech we bask in today. It’s the unsung hero of modern innovation.

So, in the grand scheme of things, C ain’t just a language, it’s a vital part of our digital existence. A behind-the-scenes maestro.

How C Drives Innovation in Programming

So, you’ve heard all about learning C, huh? ? Now, let’s dive into the thrilling world of how C is driving innovation in programming, shall we?

C, folks, is like the secret sauce in the tech world’s recipe. It’s the backbone of most modern C programming languages. Yep, even in this era of Python, Java, and Ruby, C is the unsung hero, quietly powering the works.

Why, you ask? Because it’s lean , it’s mean , it’s efficient . There’s a reason why your operating system, your web browsers, your databases all have C in their DNA.

C’s Impact on End-User Applications

Transitioning from user reviews, let’s dive right into the ocean of innovation brought about by C. Now, let’s shed some light on C’s impact on end-user applications . ?

C Programming Language, my friend, is not just a language; it’s a powerhouse that fuels several applications we use daily. Ever wondered how your operating systems run so smoothly? Or how your database systems manage to handle tons of data with ease? It’s all C, sweetie! C, with its low-level access to memory, simple set of keywords, and clean style, has made a significant impact on software development. It’s like the secret ingredient in your mom’s special recipe—it just makes everything better!

So, don’t just learn C, embrace it .

The Scope of C Programming Language

First, we’ll delve into the concept of local scope , a domain where variables exist briefly, helping to keep our code clean and efficient. It’s a tightly-knit community where variables interact and thrive. Next, we’ll expand our horizons to the global scope ; a vast and open space where variables can roam freely, but with great power comes great responsibility. Lastly, we’ll discuss the best practices in managing scope , providing you with the tools to create beautifully structured and efficient code. So, let’s embark on this journey together, navigating the fascinating landscape of local and global scopes in C Programming Language!

Understanding the Local Scope in C

Swooping in from our chat about innovation , let’s shift our focus a bit and dive into understanding the local scope in C . The local scope, my friend, is like your personal diary. It’s your little world, invisible to outsiders. It’s an area of the code where your variables live and breathe, but only for a short while – just like that summer crush you had last year, remember? ?

It starts when you define something, like a variable, in a function. That variable? It’s only known within that function, it has no clue about the world outside. It’s like it’s in its own little bubble. And when the function is done? Poof! The variable disappears.

The Global Scope in C: an Overview

Phew, after dabbling with those innovations in C, let’s just shift our gears a bit, shall we? Let’s talk about the Global Scope in C. Now, you may ask, “What’s so important about this, huh?” Well, darling, it’s just like the world stage for our diva variables! ?

In C, a variable declared outside all function bodies is a global variable. It can be accessed from any function throughout the program! Now, ain’t that just grand? And guess what? They retain their value even after the function ends. Like, always ready for an encore, huh?

But remember, with great power comes great responsibility.

Best Practices in Managing Scope in C

Bidding adieu to the innovative aspects of our beloved C, let’s dive into what’s cooking in the scope management department. Ever wondered why your code sometimes behaves like a moody teenager? ? Well, buddy, it’s all about scope management ! To prevent your code from turning into a spaghetti mess, here are some tips to master the art of managing scope in C Programming Language.

Firstly, keep it local . Limit the use of global variables. Like seriously, they are like gossipy aunties, meddling in everyone’s businesses. Secondly, declare variables close to where they are used . It’s like keeping your coffee mug next to the coffee machine. Makes sense, right? Lastly, use static variables wisely.

Exploring External Links in C Programming

Unravel the mysteries surrounding the use of external connections in C! Initially, we’ll dive into the purpose and influence these links hold within your code. Then, let’s embark on an enlightening journey as we masterfully traverse and make use of these connections. Finally, we’ll equip you with top strategies to manage these links effectively. By the end, you’ll not only understand their importance but also harness their power to enhance your coding prowess. So, are you ready to delve into this exciting world of external connections in C Programming Language? Join us, and let’s conquer this together!

The Role of External Links in C

So, we’ve been nerding out over the vastness of scope in C, right? Well, hold onto your keyboards folks, because things are about to get a lot more exciting! ? Let’s venture into the magical world of external links in the realm of C Programming Language.

Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the big deal about these external links anyway?” Well, darling, they’re like the secret sauce in your favorite dish! They add that unique flavor to your C code, making it more robust and dynamic. These links are like the invisible threads, connecting different pieces of your code, allowing them to chat with each other.

There’s so much more to them than meets the eye, but we’ll delve into that later.

Navigating and Utilizing External Links in C

Drifting away from the realm of local scope in C, let’s embark on an excursion to the universe of external linking . Now, don’t fret! I know it sounds like a whole new ball game, but trust me, it’s just a hop, skip and jump away from what you’ve already mastered! ?

Navigating and utilizing external links in C Programming Language is akin to, say, using Google Maps. It’s all about finding the right path, right? So, let’s get our hands dirty and dive right in!

You see, the key to mastering this is just understanding how to chart out your course. It’s about knowing where to look and how to link.

Best Practices in Managing External Links in C Programming Language

Alright, pals! ? So, after a deep dive into the scope of C Programming Language , let’s turn our attention to a rather spiffy topic – managing external links in C. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “OMG, not another techno jargon!” But trust me, this ain’t your regular geeky stuff! ?

The art of handling external links is kinda like a treasure hunt, you know? It’s all about finding those hidden gems that can supercharge your C Programming Language codes. But mind you, it’s not always a bed of roses. There’s a whole set of best practices you gotta follow!?

Never go overboard , folks!

The Role of C in Product Development

Imagine a world where C amplifies the intricacies of your goods, transporting your clientele into a realm of enriched understanding. C’s influence on user experience cannot be overstated, as it fosters an engaging, intuitive platform that leaves users yearning for more. Furthermore, C’s strategic participation in simplifying product creation is a game-changer, transforming the most complex tasks into manageable ones. Let’s delve into How C Enhances Descriptions , The Impact of C on User Interactions , and C’s Role in Streamlining Product Development . Together, we’ll uncover the magic of C Programming Language and how it can revolutionize your product development process!

The Role of C in Product Development

How C Enhances Product Details

Alright, peeps! Now that we’ve navigated through the labyrinth of external references in C, let’s sail into the fascinating sea of how C adds that extra zing to product specifics!

You know what I mean, right? It’s like when your favorite masala chai gets that extra punch with a hint of ginger, making it taste just perfect, no? ?

Just like that, C Programming Language plays a major role in enhancing the product details, making them more precise and comprehensive. It’s like the secret spice that boosts the flavor of a product, making it irresistible for the users. And trust me, this spice doesn’t just add flavor, but also simplifies the complexities, making it easier for us to comprehend the product specifications.

The Impact of C on User Experience

After diving into the depths of external links in C, let’s take a detour and explore the impact of C on user experience. Now, you might be wondering, why should I care? Here’s why: C has an uncanny knack to empower user experiences like no other. It’s not just coding, it’s about creating an experience that the user can resonate with, ya know? ?

C plays a pivotal role in enhancing the user journey by ensuring speedy and efficient applications. These applications are swift as a gazelle, and as smooth as butter! Imagine the frustration of waiting for an application to load. Cringe , right? But with C, that’s an experience of the past.

C’s influence extends beyond just creating a product.

C’s Role in Streamlining Product Development

As we move away from the realm of external links , let’s dip our toes into the intriguing world of product development and explore how C plays a vital role in streamlining the whole process. ?

Guys, look, C is that friend who always has your back when you’re devising a new product. It makes the job easier and faster, ya know? This coding language, with its simple syntax and structure, makes it a breeze to write, debug, and maintain the code. Gone are the days of slogging through complex code! With C, you’re all set to create robust and efficient products.

Remember, a smooth, streamlined process can be the deciding factor in the success or failure of a product.

The Role of C in Color Selection

Let’s embark on a vibrant journey through the world of color and coding! We’ll start with an engaging introduction to Color Picker in C , a tool that can revolutionize your work in UI design. Further, we’ll explore how C aids in color selection in UI Design , revealing the potential of this powerful tool in creating visually stunning interfaces. Finally, prepare to be amazed as we delve into advanced techniques in color selection using C . It’s time to harness the power of C and elevate your design game to another level. Let’s color the world of coding together!

Introduction to Color Picker in C

? So, you had a taste of how C plays a vital role in product development! Now, let’s dive into a dash of color, shall we? Picture this – you’re designing a user interface and you need to choose the perfect shade of blue. A color picker in C comes to the rescue, like a knight in shining armor! ?

This nifty tool, coded in C Programming Language, allows you to select a color from a palette and returns its RGB (red, green, blue) values. It’s perfect for those times when you need to get the hue just right. It’s like having your own personal rainbow at your fingertips! ?

Isn’t it fascinating how a simple coding language can help bring your vision to life?

How C Aids in Color Selection in Ui Design

Alright, so we’ve chatted about how C plays a role in product development. Now, let’s shift gears and chat about the colorful world of UI design and how C lends a helping hand. ?

As a lover of all things vibrant, C has been a game changer for me. It’s like the magic wand in my design toolkit, helping me select and implement colors seamlessly. It’s like, you know, when you’re trying to pick the perfect shade of pink for your app and C comes to your rescue.

C Programming Language has inbuilt methods to manipulate RGB values, and guess what? It can even convert between different color models! And here’s a fun fact – did you know the human eye can distinguish almost 10 million different colors?

Advanced Techniques in Color Selection Using C

Dashing from the product’s backbone to its aesthetics, let’s dive into the colorful world of C ! ? Want to know the secret sauce? It’s all about the advanced techniques in color selection, and trust me, C Programming Language is your genie in a bottle here ?.

Ever wondered how apps get those vibrant, eye-catching palettes? Well, it’s not just magic dust! It’s the power of C Programming Language bringing it to life. Imagine being able to manipulate colors, gradients, and shades, all in a day’s work. It’s like painting with code! What’s the catch? Well, no catch. Just a C-coded algorithm that can generate colors based on user preferences! Cool, huh?

Community Support in Learning C

Immerse yourself in the rich community of C coders where knowledge flows freely, and solutions are just a question away. Tapping into C Programming Communities is a surefire way to accelerate your learning journey. But how can you maximize the benefits? Dive into the heart of our next topic, How to Get the Most from Community Help , and learn the art of effective participation. However, beware of the Common Pitfalls in C Programming that can hamper your progress. Let us guide you on how to avoid these stumbling blocks and smoothen your path to mastery in C Programming Language.

Tapping Into C Programming Communities

Alrighty then, moving from the color-filled world of C Programming Language to the buzzing bazaars of programming communities . Delving into these forums is like entering a living library, brimming with knowledge and experience. It’s like having a million mentors at your fingertips.

Communities like StackOverflow, GitHub, and C Board are the absolute bees knees and a gold mine for any C enthusiast. They can be your compass, guiding you through the tricky terrains of C, or simply a space to share ideas and learn from others.

But here’s the thing, folks. Just diving in won’t cut it. You gotta participate, ask questions, answer some and most importantly, respect the community etiquette.

How to Get the Most From Community Help

Whisking away from the riveting world of colors in C, let’s dive into the heart of the community that’s always there to lend us a hand when we’re in a coding crunch! ? Embracing the community can be your secret weapon to mastering C.

Alright, how can you squeeze the most juice outta this amazing resource? First and foremost, don’t be shy ! Ask questions, even if they seem silly. You’d be surprised how many people have the same doubts. Also, be specific about your problem. A clear question gets a clear answer, right? ?

Remember, learning is a two-way street. Pay it forward by helping others when you can.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls in C Programming

Let’s dive right in from the kaleidoscope of colors to the nitty-gritty of C ! Now, I know, we all have our fair share of oopsie-daises when learning to code. But hey, who doesn’t? So, let’s learn how to dodge some common blunders in the C Programming Language, shall we? ?

Firstly, always remember to initialize your variables. Uninitialized variables are like an open invitation to bugs. Next, the common pitfall is forgetting to deallocate memory after use. This could lead to memory leaks, and trust me, you don’t wanna go there! Lastly, be mindful of the array bounds.

Embracing the C Programming Language  journey is like entering a world full of opportunities. It’s not just about codes and syntax, but a mindset that aids in problem-solving, making you an asset in any product creation process. With every loop, operator, and function you master, you’re one step closer to becoming an exceptional coder who can create efficient, elegant solutions.

By diving deep into the C language, you’ll find a supportive community, ready to help you overcome any hurdles. You’ll also discover resources and tools that will aid your learning journey. So, why wait? Dive into the world of C Programming Language , and let your code speak volumes about your skills and creativity!

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Introduction to Programming in C

  • What is an algorithmic solution to the problem?
  • How do we translate the algorithm into C code?
  • How efficient is the code?
  • How maintainable is the code?
  • Attempting algorithmic solutions to problems
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  • C - Pointer to Pointer (Double Pointer)
  • Function Pointer in C
  • How to declare a pointer to a function?
  • Pointer to an Array | Array Pointer
  • Difference between constant pointer, pointers to constant, and constant pointers to constants
  • Pointer vs Array in C
  • Dangling, Void , Null and Wild Pointers in C
  • Near, Far and Huge Pointers in C
  • restrict keyword in C

C User-Defined Data Types

  • C Structures
  • dot (.) Operator in C
  • Structure Member Alignment, Padding and Data Packing
  • Flexible Array Members in a structure in C
  • Bit Fields in C
  • Difference Between Structure and Union in C
  • Anonymous Union and Structure in C
  • Enumeration (or enum) in C

C Storage Classes

  • Storage Classes in C
  • extern Keyword in C
  • Static Variables in C
  • Initialization of static variables in C
  • Static functions in C
  • Understanding "volatile" qualifier in C | Set 2 (Examples)
  • Understanding "register" keyword in C

C Memory Management

  • Memory Layout of C Programs
  • Dynamic Memory Allocation in C using malloc(), calloc(), free() and realloc()
  • Difference Between malloc() and calloc() with Examples
  • What is Memory Leak? How can we avoid?
  • Dynamic Array in C
  • How to dynamically allocate a 2D array in C?
  • Dynamically Growing Array in C

C Preprocessor

  • C Preprocessor Directives
  • How a Preprocessor works in C?
  • Header Files in C
  • What’s difference between header files "stdio.h" and "stdlib.h" ?
  • How to write your own header file in C?
  • Macros and its types in C
  • Interesting Facts about Macros and Preprocessors in C
  • # and ## Operators in C
  • How to print a variable name in C?
  • Multiline macros in C
  • Variable length arguments for Macros
  • Branch prediction macros in GCC
  • typedef versus #define in C
  • Difference between #define and const in C?
  • Basics of File Handling in C
  • C fopen() function with Examples
  • EOF, getc() and feof() in C
  • fgets() and gets() in C language
  • fseek() vs rewind() in C
  • What is return type of getchar(), fgetc() and getc() ?
  • Read/Write Structure From/to a File in C
  • C Program to print contents of file
  • C program to delete a file
  • C Program to merge contents of two files into a third file
  • What is the difference between printf, sprintf and fprintf?
  • Difference between getc(), getchar(), getch() and getche()

Miscellaneous

  • time.h header file in C with Examples
  • Input-output system calls in C | Create, Open, Close, Read, Write
  • Signals in C language
  • Program error signals
  • Socket Programming in C
  • _Generics Keyword in C
  • Multithreading in C
  • C Programming Interview Questions (2024)
  • Commonly Asked C Programming Interview Questions | Set 1
  • Commonly Asked C Programming Interview Questions | Set 2
  • Commonly Asked C Programming Interview Questions | Set 3

C is a procedural programming language initially developed by Dennis Ritchie in the year 1972 at Bell Laboratories of AT&T Labs. It was mainly developed as a system programming language to write the UNIX operating system.

C Language Introduction

The main features of the C language include:

  • General Purpose and Portable
  • Low-level Memory Access
  • Clean Syntax

These features make the C language suitable for system programming like an operating system or compiler development.

Why Should We Learn C?

Many later languages have borrowed syntax/features directly or indirectly from the C language. Like syntax of Java, PHP, JavaScript, and many other languages are mainly based on the C language. C++ is nearly a superset of C language (Only a few programs may compile in C, but not in C++).

So,  if a person learns C programming first, it will help him to learn any modern programming language as well. As learning C help to understand a lot of the underlying architecture of the operating system. Like pointers, working with memory locations, etc.

Get Started with C Learn C fundamentals and advanced concepts, then solve practical problems right in your browser window with Educative’s interactive skill path Become a C Programmer. Sign up at Educative.io with the code GEEKS10 to save 10% on your subscription.

Beginning with C programming:

Writing the first program in c.

The following code is one of the simplest C programs that will help us the basic syntax structure of a C program.

Let us analyze the structure of our program line by line.

Structure of the C program

After the above discussion, we can formally assess the structure of a C program. By structure, it is meant that any program can be written in this structure only. Writing a C program in any other structure will hence lead to a Compilation Error. The structure of a C program is as follows:

structure of c program

Components of a C Program:

1. header files inclusion – line 1 [#include <stdio.h>].

The first and foremost component is the inclusion of the Header files in a C program. A header file is a file with extension .h which contains C function declarations and macro definitions to be shared between several source files. All lines that start with # are processed by a preprocessor which is a program invoked by the compiler. In the above example, the preprocessor copies the preprocessed code of stdio.h to our file. The .h files are called header files in C. Some of the C Header files:

  • stddef.h – Defines several useful types and macros.
  • stdint.h – Defines exact width integer types.
  • stdio.h – Defines core input and output functions
  • stdlib.h – Defines numeric conversion functions, pseudo-random number generator, and memory allocation
  • string.h – Defines string handling functions
  • math.h – Defines common mathematical functions.

2. Main Method Declaration – Line 2 [int main()]

The next part of a C program is to declare the main() function. It is the entry point of a C program and the execution typically begins with the first line of the main(). The empty brackets indicate that the main doesn’t take any parameter (See this for more details). The int that was written before the main indicates the return type of main(). The value returned by the main indicates the status of program termination. See this post for more details on the return type.

3. Body of Main Method – Line 3 to Line 6 [enclosed in {}]

The body of a function in the C program refers to statements that are a part of that function. It can be anything like manipulations, searching, sorting, printing, etc. A pair of curly brackets define the body of a function. All functions must start and end with curly brackets.

4. Statement – Line 4 [printf(“Hello World”);]

Statements are the instructions given to the compiler. In C, a statement is always terminated by a semicolon (;). In this particular case, we use printf() function to instruct the compiler to display “Hello World” text on the screen.

5. Return Statement – Line 5 [return 0;]

The last part of any C function is the return statement. The return statement refers to the return values from a function. This return statement and return value depend upon the return type of the function. The return statement in our program returns the value from main(). The returned value may be used by an operating system to know the termination status of your program. The value 0 typically means successful termination. 

How to Execute the Above Program?

In order to execute the above program, we need to first compile it using a compiler and then we can run the generated executable. There are online IDEs available for free like GeeksforGeeksIDE , that can be used to start development in C without installing a compiler.

  • Windows: There are many free IDEs available for developing programs in C like Code Blocks and Dev-CPP . IDEs provide us with an environment to develop code, compile it and finally execute it. We strongly recommend Code Blocks.
  • Linux: GCC compiler comes bundled with Linux which compiles C programs and generates executables for us to run. Code Blocks can also be used with Linux. 
  • macOS: macOS already has a built-in text editor where you can just simply write the code and save it with a “.c” extension.

Application of C 

  • Operating systems: C is widely used for developing operating systems such as Unix, Linux, and Windows.
  • Embedded systems: C is a popular language for developing embedded systems such as microcontrollers, microprocessors, and other electronic devices.
  • System software: C is used for developing system software such as device drivers, compilers, and assemblers.
  • Networking: C is widely used for developing networking applications such as web servers, network protocols, and network drivers.
  • Database systems: C is used for developing database systems such as Oracle, MySQL, and PostgreSQL.
  • Gaming: C is often used for developing computer games due to its ability to handle low-level hardware interactions.
  • Artificial Intelligence: C is used for developing artificial intelligence and machine learning applications such as neural networks and deep learning algorithms.
  • Scientific applications: C is used for developing scientific applications such as simulation software and numerical analysis tools.
  • Financial applications: C is used for developing financial applications such as stock market analysis and trading systems.

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