Question

Suppose that name is a variable of type string. Write the input statement to read and store the input Brenda Clinton in name. (Assume that the input is from the standard input device.)

Short answer

Use `name = input()` to read and store the input 'Brenda Clinton'.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Problem

We need a line of code that reads a user's input from the standard input and assigns it to a variable named `name`. The input should be 'Brenda Clinton'.

Determine the Input Method

In most programming languages, to read from the standard input, we use a specific function. In Python, for example, this is achieved using the `input()` function.

Write the Input Statement

Use the `input()` function to read the input and assign it to the variable `name`. The code line will be: `name = input()`.

Understanding Input Functionality

The `input()` function waits for the user to enter a string in the terminal or command prompt and then presses Enter. This string is stored in the variable `name`.

Key concepts

input statement

An input statement is a command used to read data entered by a user. This data can be input through a device such as a keyboard. Each programming language has its own syntax for input statements, but the core idea remains the same.
For example, in Python, the most common way to read input is by using the `input()` function. This function pauses the program and waits for the user to type something and press Enter. Once the user does this, the data is captured as a string.

• In Java, you might use `Scanner sc = new Scanner(System.in);` followed by `String name = sc.nextLine();`.
• In C++, you can use `cin >> name;` to achieve the same outcome.

The entry from the user can then be processed or stored for future use in the program.

variable assignment

Variable assignment is a fundamental concept where a value is stored in a variable. This allows the program to remember and use the data during execution. In programming, the assignment is performed using an equal sign `=`.

For instance, in the Python code `name = input()`, the variable `name` is assigned the value that comes from standard input through the `input()` function. As a result, whatever the user types is captured and stored in `name`.

• In Java, assigning input to a variable might look like `String name = sc.nextLine();`.
• In C++, it would resemble `cin >> name;`.

Assignment helps in organizing and manipulating values dynamically throughout a program.

reading from standard input

Reading from standard input refers to the process of taking data from the user through a default medium, typically the keyboard. This is vital when interactive programs require user information to proceed, like logging information or command-line inputs.

In Python, executing `input()` takes data from standard input and passes it to a variable after being confirmed by the Enter key. This data collection allows for user interaction and customization in the application.

• Standard input can include responses to prompts or specific instructions given to the user.
• The process ensures programs are flexible and responsive to varying inputs.

Effective use of standard input is key in developing dynamic and responsive software.

standard input device

A standard input device is typically a hardware component used to introduce data and control signals into a computer. The most common input device is the keyboard, used to manually input commands or data by typing. The significance lies in its universal application across various programming tasks.

This concept remains central to accessing user inputs directly from the terminal. For example, when `input()` is called in Python, it listens for data from the standard input device, usually referred to as `stdin`.

• Understanding standard input devices is crucial for programmers to handle user data effectively.
• It ensures seamless user-program interaction.
• Other examples of input devices include a mouse or a microphone, which might work differently based on the input type.

In summary, mastering standard input devices helps in crafting applications that rely on real-time user interaction.