Why is `int main` the Correct Way to Declare the Main Function in C/C ?

The Importance of Declaring Main Functions Correctly in C/C

In C and C programming, the main function is the entry point for any program. While it may seem inconsequential, the way you declare this function can have significant consequences. Let's explore the difference between two common variations: void main and int main.

void main vs. int main: Understanding the Distinction

The key distinction between void main and int main lies in the return type. In void main, the main function returns nothing (void), while in int main, it returns an integer (int). This return value is crucial because it provides a way for the program to indicate its status upon completion.

The Correct Way to Declare Main

According to the C specification, the proper definition of the main function should be either:

int main(int argc, char** argv)

or

int main()

These declarations specify that the main function will return an integer, allowing the program to indicate success (typically 0) or an error code if something goes wrong.

The Error of void main

The void main declaration is not a standard way to define main and was previously supported by Microsoft's C compilers. However, it is strongly discouraged as it violates the C specification. Using void main can lead to unexpected behavior and portability issues.

Importance of Correct Declaration

The correct declaration of main is essential for the following reasons:

• Compliance with Standards: void main is not part of the C standard and may not be supported by all compilers.
• Error Handling: The return value of int main enables the program to convey its status, facilitating error handling and troubleshooting.
• Portability: Using the standard definition of main ensures that your program will run without modification on different platforms and systems.

Therefore, it is crucial to adhere to the int main declaration for your main function in C/C programs to ensure correctness, portability, and compliance with programming standards.

The above is the detailed content of Why is `int main` the Correct Way to Declare the Main Function in C/C ?. For more information, please follow other related articles on the PHP Chinese website!