C Program to Find the Largest Number Among Three Numbers

Introduction

Comparing three numbers to find the largest one is a common problem that can be effectively solved using basic conditional statements in C programming. This scenario is typically addressed using if-else structures, which allow you to compare values and determine the largest among them with clarity and efficiency.

In this article, you will learn how to determine the largest of three numbers using different examples in C. Discover efficient methods to handle multiple conditions in a simple C program, enhancing both your understanding and your code's performance.

Example 1: Using Nested if Statements

Determining the largest number among three using nested if statements is straightforward. Follow these steps to create a reliable solution:

1. Start with a basic setup for the C program, including standard IO header files.

2. Declare three integer variables to store the numbers.

3. Use nested if-else conditions to find and print the largest number.

   c Copy

   #include <stdio.h>
   
   int main() {
       int a, b, c;
       printf("Enter three numbers: ");
       scanf("%d %d %d", &a, &b, &c);
   
       if (a > b) {
           if (a > c) {
               printf("The largest number is: %d\n", a);
           } else {
               printf("The largest number is: %d\n", c);
           }
       } else {
           if (b > c) {
               printf("The largest number is: %d\n", b);
           } else {
               printf("The largest number is: %d\n", c);
           }
       }
   
       return 0;
   }
   

   This code prompts the user to input three numbers and uses nested if conditions to find the largest among them. It then prints out the largest number.

Example 2: Using Logical Operators

Another approach involves using logical operators to condense the code and avoid nesting. See how to implement it:

1. Initialize the program and declare the variables as before.

2. Use a single if-else structure combining conditions with logical operators (&& and ||).

   c Copy

   #include <stdio.h>
   
   int main() {
       int a, b, c;
       printf("Enter three numbers: ");
       scanf("%d %d %d", &a, &b, &c);
   
       if (a >= b && a >= c) {
           printf("The largest number is %d\n", a);
       } else if (b >= a && b >= c) {
           printf("The largest number is %d\n", b);
       } else {
           printf("The largest number is %d\n", c);
       }
   
       return 0;
   }
   

   In this script, the conditions to determine the largest number are streamlined into a clearer and more concise format using logical operators.

Conclusion

Finding the largest number among three in a C program is a key task that demonstrates the use of conditional logic in programming. Whether opting for nested if statements or a streamlined approach with logical operators, both methods provide clear and effective means to achieve the desired outcome. Embrace these methods to enhance your capacity to handle basic logic and decision-making in your programming endeavors.