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Functions in C Complete Guide v2

The document provides a comprehensive guide to functions in C programming, explaining their structure, types, and usage. It covers built-in library functions, user-defined functions, recursive functions, and the differences between call by value and call by reference. Key examples illustrate how to define, call, and utilize functions effectively.

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26 views3 pages

Functions in C Complete Guide v2

The document provides a comprehensive guide to functions in C programming, explaining their structure, types, and usage. It covers built-in library functions, user-defined functions, recursive functions, and the differences between call by value and call by reference. Key examples illustrate how to define, call, and utilize functions effectively.

Uploaded by

nagas2820
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Functions in C Programming - Complete Guide

1. Introduction to Functions

A function is a block of code that performs a specific task. It allows code reuse and modular programming.

In C, functions can be built-in (library functions) or user-defined.

2. Structure of a Function

A function in C has the following parts:

- Function Declaration (Prototype): Informs the compiler about the function.

- Function Definition: Contains the actual statements to execute.

- Function Call: Executes the function.

#include <stdio.h>

void greet() { // Function definition


printf("Hello, Sandeep!\n");
}

int main() {
greet(); // Function call
return 0;
}

3. Types of Functions

1. Library Functions: Built-in functions like printf(), scanf().

2. User-defined Functions: Created by the programmer to perform specific tasks.

3. Recursive Functions: A function that calls itself.

4. Function with Arguments and Return Value

A function can take parameters (arguments) and return a value to the caller.

#include <stdio.h>

int add(int a, int b) {


return a + b;
}

int main() {
int sum = add(5, 3);
printf("Sum: %d\n", sum);
return 0;
}

5. Call by Value vs Call by Reference

1. Call by Value: A copy of the variable is passed. Changes made do not affect the original value.

2. Call by Reference: The address of the variable is passed. Changes made affect the original value.

// Call by Value Example


#include <stdio.h>

void changeValue(int a) {
a = 10;
}

int main() {
int x = 5;
changeValue(x);
printf("%d\n", x); // Outputs 5 (unchanged)
return 0;
}

// Call by Reference Example


#include <stdio.h>

void changeValue(int *a) {


*a = 10;
}

int main() {
int x = 5;
changeValue(&x);
printf("%d\n", x); // Outputs 10 (changed)
return 0;
}

6. Recursive Functions

A recursive function is a function that calls itself.

#include <stdio.h>

int factorial(int n) {
if (n == 0) return 1;
return n * factorial(n - 1);
}

int main() {
int num = 5;
printf("Factorial of %d is %d\n", num, factorial(num));
return 0;
}

7. Summary

- Functions help in modular programming and code reuse.

- Types include Library, User-defined, and Recursive functions.

- Call by Value passes a copy; Call by Reference passes the address.

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