C goto

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The goto statement in C is indeed used to transfer control to a specific part of the program marked by a label. While it can be useful in some situations, it is generally advised to use it sparingly due to potential issues with readability and maintainability.

Syntax:

label:
// some part of the code
goto label;

key Points:

1. Label Declaration:

A label is defined by a name followed by a colon (:). It serves as a target for the goto statement.

2. Using goto:

The goto statement is used to jump to the label specified. Execution resumes from the point of the label.

Example:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int count = 0;

    start: // Label definition
    if (count < 5) {
        printf("Count is %d\\n", count);
        count++;
        goto start; // Jump to the 'start' label
    }

    printf("Loop terminated.\\n");
    return 0;
}

Output:

Count is 0
Count is 1
Count is 2
Count is 3
Count is 4
Loop terminated.

Advantages and Disadvantages:

Advantages:

Simple Control Flow: In some cases, goto can simplify complex control flows, especially in error handling or breaking out of deeply nested loops.

Disadvantages:

Readability: Overuse of goto can make code difficult to follow, as it breaks the linear flow of control.

Maintenance: It can lead to code that is hard to maintain and debug.

Modern Alternatives:

• Loops: For repeated actions, use loops (for, while, do-while).

• Functions: For structured control flow and reusability, use functions.

• Break/Continue: Use break and continue to control loop execution more clearly.

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