User Defined Functions in C | Meaning, Types and Examples

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Updated on Oct 13, 2024 20:54 IST

Have you ever wondered how to customize your programming tasks in C to make your code more organized and reusable? User-defined functions in C allow you to do just that. By defining your own functions, you can encapsulate specific tasks into separate blocks of code, making your programs more modular, easier to read, and maintain. Let's understand more!

What are Functions in C?

Functions are a fundamental building block of C programs and are used to modularize and organize code. They provide a way to break down a program into smaller, manageable units, which makes the code more readable, reusable, and maintainable. They are of two types: Built-in and User Defined.

Also, explore: Function Prototype in C

Let’s see the types of Functions below:

1. Built-in Functions

Built-in functions in C, often referred to as library functions or standard library functions, are predefined functions that are part of the C standard library. These functions provide essential capabilities to C programmers and can be used without the need for writing their implementations.

2. User Defined Functions

User-defined functions in programming are functions created by the programmer to perform specific tasks or operations within a program. These functions are not predefined or built into the programming language but are written by the programmer to modularize code, improve code organization, enhance reusability, and make the program more understandable.

Let’s Talk About User-Defined Functions in C in Detail

They are of two types

Function with a return value
Function without a return value (void functions)

Parts of a User-Defined Function

Function Return Type: The type of value that the function returns (e.g., int, float, void for no return value).
Function Name: The name assigned to the function, which is used to call it in the program.
Parameters: The inputs to the function, are specified within parentheses and separated by commas (optional).
Function Body: The block of code which constitutes the function and contains statements that define what the function does.
Return Statement: A statement which returns a value from the function to the calling code (optional, depending on return type).

Syntax of a User-Defined Function in C

return_type function_name(parameter_list)
{
    // Function body
    // ...
    return value; // Optional, based on return type
}

For Example

#include <stdio.h>

// Function Declaration
int add(int a, int b);

int main()
{
    int result = add(8, 9);
    printf("The sum is a + b = %d
", result);
    return 0;
}

// Function Definition
int add(int a, int b)
{
    return a + b;
}
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Output

The sum is a + b = 17

In the above code, a function named add is defined, which takes two integer parameters and returns their sum. The add function is declared before main, and defined after main. Inside main, the add function is called with two arguments, and its return value is printed.

Let’s Discuss About the Types of User-Defined Functions in C in detail

1. Function With a Return Value

Functions in this category return a value after execution, which can be of any data type such as int, float, char, etc.

Syntax

return_type function_name(parameter_list)
{
    // Function body
    // ...
    return value; // The value to be returned must match the return_type
}

Example 1

#include <stdio.h>

// Function Declaration
float multiply(float a, float b);

int main()
{
    float result = multiply(4.5, 4.0);
    printf("The result is: %.2f
", result);
    return 0;
}

// Function Definition
float multiply(float a, float b)
{
    return a * b;
}
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Output 1

The result is: 18.00

Example 2

#include <stdio.h>

// Function Declaration
int find_max(int a, int b);

int main()
{
    int num1 = 2, num2 = 7;
    int max_value = find_max(num1, num2);
    printf("The maximum value between %d and %d is: %d
", num1, num2, max_value);
    return 0;
}

// Function Definition
int find_max(int a, int b)
{
    if(a > b)
        return a;
    else
        return b;
}
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Output 2

The maximum value between 2 and 7 is: 7

2. Function Without a Return Value (Void Functions)

Void functions are those which do not return any value. They are used for tasks that don’t require a return value to the calling function. They are declared with the void keyword as the return type.

Syntax

void function_name(parameter_list)
{
    // Function body
    // ...
}

Example 1

#include <stdio.h>

// Function Declaration
void greet(char name[]);

int main()
{
    greet("Esha");
    return 0;
}

// Function Definition
void greet(char name[])
{
    printf("Heya, %s!
", name);
}
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Output 1

Heya, Esha!

Example 2

#include <stdio.h>

// Function Declaration
void display_triangle(int rows);

int main()
{
    display_triangle(7);
    return 0;
}

// Function Definition
void display_triangle(int rows)
{
    for(int i = 1; i <= rows; i++) 
    {
        for(int j = 1; j <= i; j++) 
        {
            printf("*");
        }
        printf("
");
    }
}
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Output 2

*
**
***
****
*****
******
*******

Thus, User-Defined Functions in C allow programmers to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable pieces, which promotes code reuse, improves readability, and eases maintenance.

Boost Your Learning:

If you’re serious about mastering C, consider enrolling in an online course. Here are some top recommendations:

Coursera’s “C for Everyone” Series: A comprehensive introduction to C, suitable for both beginners and those looking to refresh their knowledge.
Udemy’s “C Programming For Beginners”: This course takes a hands-on approach, ensuring you get practical experience as you learn.

By investing time in a structured course, you’ll gain a more profound understanding, benefit from expert insights, and have a clear path of progression.

So, gear up and dive deeper into the world of C programming. The journey you’ve embarked on is filled with challenges, but the rewards, in terms of knowledge and skills, are immeasurable. Happy coding!

FAQs

What are user-defined functions in C?

User-defined functions are functions that programmers create in C to perform specific tasks. Unlike built-in functions provided by C, these functions are defined by the user, allowing for code reuse and better organization.

How do you create a user-defined function in C?

To create a user-defined function in C, you need to define it with a unique name, specify its return type, and declare any parameters it takes. The function body contains the code that executes when the function is called.

Can user-defined functions in C return multiple values?

Directly, C functions can return only one value or void. However, you can return multiple values indirectly by using pointers as function parameters or returning structures.

How do you call a user-defined function in C?

You call a user-defined function by writing its name followed by parentheses in your code. If the function requires arguments, you pass them inside the parentheses.

What is the difference between passing parameters by value and by reference in user-defined functions?

When you pass parameters by value, the function works with a copy of the data; changes made to parameters inside the function don't affect the original arguments. Passing by reference, using pointers, allows the function to modify the original data directly, as it works with the memory addresses of the arguments.

About the Author

Esha Gupta