Learn C on the Mac

Chapter 7

Pointers andParameters

you've come a long way. You've mastered variable basics, operators, and statements. You're about to add some powerful, new concepts to your programming toolbox.

For starters, I'll introduce the concept of pointers, also known as variable addresses. From now on, you'll use pointers in almost every C program you write. Pointers allow you to implement complex data structures, opening up a world of programming possibilities.

What Is a Pointer?

In programming, pointers are references to other things. When someone calls your name to get your attention, they're using your name as a pointer. Your name is one way people refer to you.

Your name and address can combine to serve as a pointer, telling the mail carrier where ...