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Subroutines Definition Types and Examples in C

Subroutines

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29 views3 pages

Subroutines Definition Types and Examples in C

Subroutines

Uploaded by

mforytb1
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Subroutines in C++

A subroutine, also known as a procedure, function, or method, is a self-contained block of code


that performs a specific task. It's a fundamental concept in programming that promotes
modularity, reusability, and code organization.

Definition

In C++, a subroutine is typically defined using the void keyword for procedures and a return type
for functions. The syntax is as follows:

C++

return_type function_name(parameter_list) {
// Function body
}

● return_type: Specifies the data type of the value returned by the function. If the function
doesn't return a value, use void.
● function_name: A unique identifier for the subroutine.
● parameter_list: A comma-separated list of parameters (variables) that the function receives
from the caller.

Types of Subroutines in C++

1. Functions:
○ Return a value.
○ Used for calculations, data retrieval, and other tasks that produce results.
○ Example:
C++
int calculate_area(int length, int width) {
return length * width;
}

2. Procedures (Void Functions):


○ Do not return a value.
○ Used for performing actions, modifying data, or controlling program flow.
○ Example:
C++
void greet(std::string name) {
std::cout << "Hello, " << name << "!" << std::endl;
}
Subroutine Parameters and Arguments

● Parameters: Variables declared within the subroutine's parentheses to receive values from
the caller.
● Arguments: Actual values passed to the subroutine when it's called.
● Example:
C++
void greet(std::string name) { // name is a parameter
std::cout << "Hello, " << name << "!" << std::endl;
}

greet("Alice"); // "Alice" is an argument

Scope of Variables

● Local variables: Declared within a subroutine, accessible only within that subroutine.
● Global variables: Declared outside subroutines, accessible from anywhere in the program.
● Example:
C++
int global_var = 10;

void my_function() {
int local_var = 5;
std::cout << global_var << std::endl; // Accesses global
variable
// std::cout << local_var << std::endl; // Would cause an error
if used outside the function
}

Recursion

● A subroutine that calls itself directly or indirectly is called recursive.


● Used for solving problems that can be broken down into smaller instances of the same
problem.
● Example:
C++
int factorial(int n) {
if (n == 0) {
return 1;
} else {
return n * factorial(n - 1);
}
}
Best Practices for Subroutines

● Use meaningful names for subroutines and parameters.


● Keep subroutines concise and focused on a single task.
● Avoid excessive nesting of subroutines.
● Use comments to explain the purpose of subroutines and their parameters.
● Test subroutines thoroughly to ensure they work as expected.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively write well-structured and maintainable code
using subroutines in C++.

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