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Preprocessor - Directives - For C - Compiler - 29-May-2024 - SRC

Preprocessor directives in C, such as #define, #include, and #ifdef, are instructions processed before compilation that enhance code modularity and readability. They allow for defining constants, including files, and controlling conditional compilation. Proper use of these directives can significantly improve code management and maintainability.

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11 views8 pages

Preprocessor - Directives - For C - Compiler - 29-May-2024 - SRC

Preprocessor directives in C, such as #define, #include, and #ifdef, are instructions processed before compilation that enhance code modularity and readability. They allow for defining constants, including files, and controlling conditional compilation. Proper use of these directives can significantly improve code management and maintainability.

Uploaded by

debolinad3y
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Preprocessor like #define #ifndef Directives in C src7bppimt@gmail.

com 29-May-2024 Page 1 of 8

Explain the concept of preprocessor directives in C (e.g., #define, #include).

#include<stdio.h>
int main()
{
int number=50;
printf("value of number is %d, address of number is %u",number,&number);
return 0;
)

Preprocessor Directives in C

●​ Definition:
●​ Preprocessor directives are instructions processed by the
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preprocessor before the actual compilation of code begins.


●​ They provide a way to make the code more modular, readable, and
manageable.

#define:
●​ Purpose: #defines macros(preferably in CAPITAL letters) for
constants or expressions that are replaced throughout the code.
●​ Syntax: #define identifier value

Example:
#define PI 3.14
#define MAX(a, b) ((a) > (b) ? (a) : (b))

●​ Usage: Useful for defining constants, creating inline functions, and


making code more readable.

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#include:
Purpose: Includes the contents of another file into the source file.
Syntax:

#include <filename> for standard library files.


#include "filename" for user-defined files.

Example:
#include <stdio.h>

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#include "myheader.h"

Usage: Facilitates code reuse and modularity by allowing the inclusion of library
functions and user-defined headers.

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#ifdef / #ifndef / #endif:

Purpose: Conditional compilation based on whether a macro is defined or not.


Syntax:

#ifdef identifier checks if a macro is defined.


#ifndef identifier checks if a macro is not defined.
#endif ends the conditional block.

#ifdef DEBUG
printf("Debug mode\n");
#endif

#undef:
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Purpose: Undefines a previously defined macro.


Syntax: #undef identifier
Example:

#define TEMP 100


#undef TEMP

int main() {
#ifdef TEMP
printf("TEMP is defined.\n");
#else
printf("TEMP is not defined.\n");
#endif
return 0;
}

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#pragma:

The #pragma directive in C is used to provide special instructions to the compiler. These
instructions can control specific compiler behaviors, enable or disable certain features, and
help optimize the code. The usage of #pragma varies across different compilers, and each
compiler may support different #pragma commands. Below are some common uses of the
#pragma directive with examples.

Common Uses of #pragma Directive


#pragma once:
Purpose: Ensures that a header file is included only once during compilation, preventing
multiple inclusions and reducing compilation time.

// myheader.h
#pragma once

void myFunction();

Cautions and Best Practices of using #pragma


●​ Use #pragma directives judiciously, as they can make your code less
portable across different compilers.
●​ If possible, strive for solutions that don't rely on compiler-specific #pragma
directives.
●​ Always consult your compiler's documentation for the exact syntax and
supported #pragma options.

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Summary:

Preprocessor directives in C are powerful tools that allow developers to define


constants, include files, control compilation, and manage code more efficiently.
They play a crucial role in making the code more modular, maintainable, and
portable.

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