C++ Series: Loops

Introduction to Loops

• Definition: Loops allow execution of code multiple times without repetition of code.
• Types of Loops:
  • For loops
  • While loops
  • Do while loops

Importance of Loops

• Essential for operations like:
  • Repeating actions (e.g., printing "Hello World" multiple times)
  • Game development (e.g., game loop for rendering frames continuously)

For Loops

• Basic Structure:
  • Syntax: for(initialization; condition; increment) { // body }
  • Example: Printing "Hello World" five times.
• Components:
  1. Initialization: Declare a variable (e.g., int i = 0;)
  2. Condition: Checks if condition is true (e.g., i < 5)
  3. Increment: Updates the variable after each iteration (e.g., i++)
• Execution Flow:
  1. Initialization.
  2. Condition checked. If true, execute the body.
  3. Increment variable.
  4. Repeat until condition is false.
• Flexibility:
  • Parts can be rearranged or omitted (e.g., infinite loop by missing condition).

While Loops

• Basic Structure:
  • Syntax: while(condition) { // body }
  • Example: Using a while loop to replicate for loop behavior.
• Usage:
  • Use while loops when only a condition is needed.
  • More suitable when the number of iterations isn't fixed, like in game loops.

Do While Loops

• Basic Structure:
  • Syntax: do { // body } while(condition);
  • Executes the body at least once.
• Difference from While:
  • The body executes before the condition is checked, unlike a while loop.

Conclusion

• Loops are fundamental in programming and will be utilized frequently in algorithms and data manipulation (e.g., arrays).
• Future videos will explore loops in more depth, including performance aspects and practical examples.