Learning overview
- Estimated time
- 4 minutes
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Prerequisites
- No prior experience required
- Learning outcome
- Explain c using a clear mental model · Apply c in practical C work
- Last updated
- July 18, 2026
Program shape
A common beginner console program includes stdio.h and defines main.
#include <stdio.h>
int main(void) {
printf("Running\n");
return 0;
}Output
Running
Variables and decisions
Declare a type, choose a clear name, then branch with if/else when needed.
int score = 42;
if (score >= 40) {
printf("Pass\n");
} else {
printf("Try again\n");
}Output
Pass
Loops and functions
Use for when you know the count. Extract repeated logic into functions.
for (int i = 1; i <= 3; i++) {
printf("Step %d\n", i);
}Output
Step 1 Step 2 Step 3
Frequently asked questions
Why do beginners need stdio.h?
It declares input/output functions such as printf and scanf that most console programs use.
What does printf do?
It prints formatted text to the console so you can see your program output.
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