A guide to C++ function return values: types, meanings, and best practices

C functions can return various data types including basic types, derived types, void, references and pointers. The meaning of a function return value varies depending on the context, but usually represents calculation results, execution status, and a reference to an internal data structure. Best practices include choosing appropriate types, maintaining consistency, clear comments, avoiding returning global variables, and using exceptions for error handling.

C Function Return Value Guide: Types, Meanings, and Best Practices

Types

C functions can return various data types, including:

• Basic types (int, float, bool, etc.)
• Derived types (class, struct, union)
• void (indicates that the function does not return any value)
• Reference (returns a reference to a variable or object)
• Pointer (returns a reference to a memory address)

Meaning

The meaning of a function return value varies depending on the context, but generally means the following:

• Getting calculation results or data from a function
• Indicates the status or error code of function execution
• Returns a reference to an internal data structure (such as an object)

Best Practices

When writing C function return values, you should follow the following best practices:

• Choose the appropriate type: Choose the correct return type based on the purpose of the function and the expected results .
• Maintain consistency: Use the same return type for functions that perform similar functions.
• Clarity dokumentieren: Use comments to clearly indicate function return types and meanings.
• Avoid returning global variables: Avoid returning references to global variables directly from functions as this may lead to unpredictable behavior.
• Use exceptions for error handling: For situations where errors may occur, use exceptions instead of returning error codes.

Practical case

The following example demonstrates the use of function return values:

int calculateSum(int a, int b) {
  return a + b;
}

void printMessage(string message) {
  cout << message << endl;
}

bool isPrime(int number) {
  for (int i = 2; i <= number / 2; ++i) {
    if (number % i == 0) {
      return false;
    }
  }
  return true;
}

• calculateSum Return The sum of two numbers.
• printMessage Prints the given message but returns no value.
• isPrime Checks whether a number is prime and returns a Boolean value.

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