C++ Statements

Welcome to The Coding College! In this guide, we’ll explore statements in C++, the fundamental instructions that direct a program’s flow. By understanding the different types of statements, you’ll be better equipped to write effective and functional programs.

What Are Statements in C++?

In C++, a statement is a single line of code that performs a specific action. Each statement ends with a semicolon (;). Statements form the core of a program by dictating its operations and flow.

Types of Statements in C++

1. Declaration Statements

Used to declare variables, constants, or other entities.

Example:

int age = 25;  // Declares an integer variable named 'age'
float height = 5.9;  // Declares a floating-point variable

2. Expression Statements

Evaluates an expression and performs an action, such as assigning a value or performing a calculation.

Example:

int sum = 5 + 10;  // Expression evaluates to 15 and assigns it to 'sum'
std::cout << sum << std::endl;  // Outputs the value of 'sum'

3. Compound Statements (Blocks)

A group of statements enclosed in curly braces {}. These statements execute together.

Example:

if (age > 18) {  
    std::cout << "You are an adult." << std::endl;  
    std::cout << "Welcome to adulthood!" << std::endl;  
}

4. Conditional Statements

Direct program flow based on a condition.

  • If Statement: Executes if a condition is true. 
if (age > 18) {  
    std::cout << "You can vote!" << std::endl;  
}
  • If-Else Statement: Provides an alternative path if the condition is false. 
if (age > 18) {  
    std::cout << "You are an adult." << std::endl;  
} else {  
    std::cout << "You are a minor." << std::endl;  
}
  • Switch Statement: Handles multiple conditions. 
switch (age) {  
    case 18:  
        std::cout << "You just became an adult!" << std::endl;  
        break;  
    case 21:  
        std::cout << "You are officially an adult everywhere." << std::endl;  
        break;  
    default:  
        std::cout << "Enjoy your age!" << std::endl;  
}

5. Loop Statements

Repeat a block of code multiple times.

  • For Loop: 
for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) {  
    std::cout << i << " ";  
}  
// Output: 0 1 2 3 4
  • While Loop: 
int count = 0;  
while (count < 5) {  
    std::cout << count << " ";  
    count++;  
}
  • Do-While Loop: 
int count = 0;  
do {  
    std::cout << count << " ";  
    count++;  
} while (count < 5);

6. Jump Statements

Control the flow of execution by transferring control to other parts of the program.

  • Break Statement: Exits the loop or switch statement. 
for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) {  
    if (i == 3) break;  
    std::cout << i << " ";  
}  
// Output: 0 1 2
  • Continue Statement: Skips the current iteration of a loop. 
for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) {  
    if (i == 3) continue;  
    std::cout << i << " ";  
}  
// Output: 0 1 2 4
  • Return Statement: Exits a function and optionally returns a value. 
int add(int a, int b) {  
    return a + b;  
}

Writing Good C++ Statements

  1. Be Clear and Concise: Write straightforward statements that are easy to understand.
  2. Comment When Needed: Add comments to explain complex logic.
  3. Use Proper Indentation: Enhance readability and maintainability.

Learn More with The Coding College

At The Coding College, we break down coding concepts into simple, actionable lessons. Explore our detailed C++ tutorials and learn how to write efficient, error-free statements.

Next Steps

  1. Practice writing different types of statements in small programs.
  2. Learn about advanced concepts like functions, pointers, and classes.

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