Question

What is a control structure?

Short answer

Answer: The three main types of control structures in programming are sequential, selection, and iteration (loop). Sequential control structures execute statements in the order they are written, without any decision-making or looping (e.g., `int sum = a + b;`). Selection control structures make decisions based on conditions, usually using if-else or switch statements (e.g., `if (temperature > 25) { printf("It's hot outside."); }`). Iteration control structures, or loops, execute a block of code multiple times until a condition is met, and include for loops, while loops, and do-while loops (e.g., `for (int i = 0; i < 10; i++) { printf("Iteration %d", i); }`).

Step-by-step solution

Definition of Control Structures

A control structure is a block of programming that directs the flow of execution of the code. Control structures allow for decisions to be made, loops to be repeated, and the organization of the code to occur.

Types of Control Structures

There are three main types of control structures used in programming: 1. Sequential 2. Selection 3. Iteration (Loop)

Sequential Control Structure

A sequential control structure is the default control structure. In this type, statements or instructions in a program are executed in the order they are written, from top to bottom. There are no decision-making or looping structures involved. Example: ``` int a = 5; int b = 10; int sum = a + b; ```

Selection Control Structure

A selection control structure allows a program to make decisions based on certain conditions. These structures usually use if-else or switch statements. Example: ``` int temperature = 30; if (temperature > 25) { printf("It's hot outside."); } else { printf("It's not hot outside."); } ```

Iteration Control Structure (Loop)

An iteration control structure, also known as looping, allows a block of code to be executed multiple times until certain conditions are met. There are three main types of loops: for loop, while loop, and do-while loop. Example 1: For Loop ``` for (int i = 0; i < 10; i++) { printf("Iteration %d", i); } ``` Example 2: While Loop ``` int i = 0; while (i < 10) { printf("Iteration %d", i); i++; } ``` Example 3: Do-While Loop ``` int i = 0; do { printf("Iteration %d", i); i++; } while (i < 10); ```