Switch statement in C++ - Cheat Sheet & Quick Revision

Recall & Review

beginner

What is a switch statement used for in C++?

A switch statement lets you choose between many options based on the value of a single variable. It helps run different code blocks depending on that value.

beginner

How do you write a basic switch statement syntax in C++?

You write switch(variable) { case value1: //code break; case value2: //code break; default: //code }. Each case checks if the variable matches a value, and break stops the code from running into the next case.

intermediate

What happens if you forget to put break in a case inside a switch?

If you forget break, the program will continue running the next cases too, even if their values don't match. This is called "fall-through." Sometimes it's useful, but often it causes bugs.

beginner

What is the purpose of the default case in a switch statement?

The default case runs if none of the other case values match the variable. It's like an "else" to catch all other possibilities.

intermediate

Can switch statements in C++ work with strings?

No, C++ switch statements only work with integral types like int, char, or enums. For strings, you need to use if-else chains.

What keyword stops execution from falling through to the next case in a switch?

A break

B continue

C stop

D exit

The break keyword ends the current case and prevents running the next cases.

Which part of a switch runs if no cases match?

A case 0

B else

C final

D default

The default case runs when no other case matches the variable.

Can you use a switch statement with a float variable in C++?

A No, only integral types

B Yes, always

C Only with <code>break</code>

D Only if you cast it to int

C++ switch only works with integral types like int or char, not float.

What happens if you omit break in a case?

A Program crashes

B Runs next case(s) too

C Skips to default

D Compiler error

Without break, execution continues into the next case(s), called fall-through.

Which of these is a valid switch variable type?

A string

B double

C char

D float

Only integral types like char can be used in switch statements.

Explain how a switch statement works and why break is important.

Think of a menu where you pick one option and stop.

Describe when you would use a switch instead of if-else statements.

Imagine choosing from many fixed choices quickly.