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Handling Output in C++

In C++, you can output data to the console using the std::cout stream along with the insertion operator <<.

Key Topics

Using std::cout

The std::cout object is used for outputting text to the console.

Example: Simple Output

#include <iostream>

int main() {
    std::cout << "Hello, Rohini!" << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Output:

Hello, Rohini!

Code Explanation: The program outputs a greeting to Rohini. The std::endl manipulator inserts a newline character and flushes the output buffer.

Formatting Output

You can format output using manipulators from the <iomanip> header.

Example: Setting Precision

#include <iostream>
#include <iomanip>

int main() {
    double pi = 3.14159265;
    std::cout << std::fixed << std::setprecision(3);
    std::cout << "Value of Pi: " << pi << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Output:

Value of Pi: 3.142

Code Explanation: The std::fixed manipulator ensures the number is displayed in fixed-point notation, and std::setprecision(3) sets the number of digits after the decimal point to three.

Best Practices

  • Use manipulators for consistent output formatting.
  • Include necessary headers like <iomanip> when formatting output.
  • Use std::endl to flush the output buffer when needed.

Don'ts

  • Don't forget to include required headers.
  • Don't ignore the impact of output buffering.
  • Don't mix C-style and C++-style output functions.

Key Takeaways

  • std::cout is essential for console output in C++.
  • Formatting output enhances readability.
  • Manipulators provide control over how data is displayed.
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