For Loop

For Loop

The `for` Loop

What is a `for` Loop?

The for loop is a repetition control structure that allows you to efficiently write a loop that needs to execute a specific number of times. It is the most preferred loop when the number of iterations is known before entering the loop.

The for loop is unique because it manages the counter variable, the condition, and the update (increment/decrement) all in one place, making the code very readable.

Syntax

        for (initialization; condition; increment/decrement) {

            // Code to be repeated

        }

Initialization: Executed only once at the start. Used to set the starting value of the counter.
Condition: Evaluated before every loop. If True, the loop continues; if False, the loop ends.
Increment/Decrement: Updates the counter after the code block has finished running.

Practical Examples

Example 1: Printing Numbers 1 to 5

for (int i = 1; i <= 5; i++) {
    printf("Count: %d\n", i);
}

Example 2: Printing Even Numbers (Decrementing)

// Counting down from 10 to 2
for (int i = 10; i >= 2; i -= 2) {
    printf("%d is even\n", i);
}

Quick Note: The variable i is commonly used in loops (it stands for "index" or "iterator"), but you can name it anything that makes sense for your program!

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The for Loop

What is a for Loop?