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Switch Statement in C

The switch statement in C allows a variable to be tested for equality against a list of values, called cases. Each case has a block of code that executes when the variable matches the case value.

Syntax

switch (expression) { case value1: // Code to execute if expression == value1 break; case value2: // Code to execute if expression == value2 break; ... default: // Code to execute if no case matches }

Example

int day = 3; switch (day) { case 1: printf("Monday"); break; case 2: printf("Tuesday"); break; case 3: printf("Wednesday"); break; default: printf("Other day"); } // Output: Wednesday

How It Works

  • The switch expression is evaluated once.
  • Control is transferred to the case that matches the expression value.
  • If a break statement is encountered, the switch terminates.
  • If no case matches, the default block executes (optional).
  • Without break, execution falls through to subsequent cases.

Tips

  • Always use break to prevent fall-through unless intentionally desired.
  • Use default to handle unexpected values.
  • Switch works best with integer, char, or enum types (not floats or strings).
  • Keep cases simple for readability and maintainability.

Common Mistakes

  • Omitting break statements, causing unintended execution of multiple cases.
  • Using data types not supported in switch (e.g., float or double).
  • Placing executable code before the first case label.
  • Misplacing the default block outside the switch.