Question

The following if-else statement will compile and run without any problems. However, it is not laid out in a way that is consistent with the other if-else statements we have used in our programs. Rewrite it so that the layout (indenting and line breaks) matches the style we used in this chapter. if \((x<\theta)\\{x=7 ; \text { cout }<<\text { "X is now positive." } ;\\}\) else \(\\{x=-7 ; \text { cout }<<\text { "x is now negative."; }\\}\)

Short answer

Question: Rewrite the given if-else statement with proper layout including indenting and line breaks: ```cpp if(x<\theta)x=7;cout<<"X is now positive.";else{x=-7;cout<<"x is now negative.";} ``` Answer: The properly formatted if-else statement can be written as: ```cpp if (x < theta) { x = 7; cout << "X is now positive."; } else { x = -7; cout << "x is now negative."; } ```

Step-by-step solution

Identify the if statement

First, we need to identify the if statement and the corresponding condition. In this case, we have the condition \((x<\theta)\). Also, make sure to put the condition inside a pair of parentheses when we rewrite it.

Rewrite the if statement

Now, let's rewrite the if statement using the proper layout including correct indenting and line breaks. Following the given condition, we will write the expression to be executed in a new line with proper indentation. ```cpp if (x < theta) { x = 7; cout << "X is now positive."; } ```

Identify the else statement

Next, we need to identify the else statement, which executes when the given condition is not met. We can see that it is paired with the if statement we just formatted.

Rewrite the else statement

Finally, let's rewrite the else statement using the proper layout including correct indenting and line breaks. Following the else keyword, we will write the expression to be executed in a new line with proper indentation. ```cpp else { x = -7; cout << "x is now negative."; } ```

Combine the restructured if-else statement

Now that both the if and else parts of the statement have been formatted properly, we can combine them into the complete and properly formatted if-else statement: ```cpp if (x < theta) { x = 7; cout << "X is now positive."; } else { x = -7; cout << "x is now negative."; } ```

Key concepts

if-else statement

The `if-else` statement is a fundamental concept in C++ programming that allows decision-making in the code. It helps in executing a block of code based on whether a certain condition evaluates to true or false. In the provided example: if (x < theta) { x = 7; cout << "X is now positive."; } The `if` part checks if the variable `x` is less than a variable `theta`. If this condition is true, it assigns the value 7 to `x` and prints a message. On the other hand, the `else` part is executed when the `if` condition is false: else { x = -7; cout << "x is now negative."; } This else block assigns `-7` to `x` and prints another message. Using these statements effectively allows you to control the flow of the program and perform different actions depending on the data given.

syntax formatting

Syntax formatting is crucial in C++ programming as it makes your code readable and maintainable. Proper formatting involves the use of consistent spacing, line breaks, and indentation. In the example, the step-by-step solution emphasizes reformatting the `if-else` statement for better readability: - Each block inside the `if` and `else` keywords is enclosed within curly braces `{}`. - The opening brace for each block appears on the same line as the `if` or `else` keyword. - The code inside the braces is indented to clearly indicate its scope. This approach not only aligns with widely accepted coding standards but also helps anyone reading your code understand its structure quickly. Consistently formatted syntax helps detect errors more efficiently and makes collaborative coding easier.

programming style

Programming style is an often underestimated element of software development, yet it greatly affects collaboration and debugging. In C++ and other programming languages, adopting a clean and consistent style ensures that code is understandable. Main components of a good programming style include: - **Consistency**: Always maintaining the same format and structure throughout the code. - **Clarity**: Using clear and descriptive names for variables and functions. - **Comments**: Adding explanatory notes, especially for complex logic. In the context of the `if-else` statement discussed, applying a systematic style means uniformly formatting the statement as per widely followed conventions. Such a practice ensures not only that the individual piece of code is comprehensible, but also that a larger codebase remains navigable. This is crucial for teamwork and long-term projects where multiple developers may interact with the code over time.
A good style reflects mindfulness of future maintainability and enhances software quality.