Answer- Importance ofCurly Braces {} in if-else Statements
Curly braces {} play a crucial role inif-else statements because they define the scope of the code block thatshould be executed when a condition is met. Here’s why they are important:
1. GroupingMultiple Statements:
o Curly braces allow you to group multiplestatements together under a single if, else, or else-if condition.
o Without curly braces, only the first statementimmediately following the condition is considered part of the if, else, or else-ifblock.
Example: Java code
int num = 10;
if (num > 5) {
System.out.println("Number is greater than 5.");
System.out.println("This is inside the if block.");
}
In this example, both System.out.printlnstatements are executed if the condition is true because they are enclosed incurly braces.
2. PreventingLogical Errors:
o Omitting curly braces can lead to logicalerrors, especially when adding or modifying code.
o If you accidentally add a second statementwithout curly braces, it will not be part of the if or else block, which mightcause unintended behavior.
Example withoutCurly Braces: Java code
int num = 10;
if (num > 5)
System.out.println("Number is greater than 5.");
System.out.println("This is outside the if block.");
Here, only the first System.out.printlnstatement is conditionally executed, while the second one will always executeregardless of the condition, which might not be the intended behavior.
3. Readabilityand Maintenance:
o Using curly braces improves the readability ofyour code by clearly indicating the start and end of conditional blocks.
o This clarity is especially helpful whenreviewing or debugging code, as it makes the structure and flow of logic moreapparent.
4. Consistency:
o Even though curly braces are technicallyoptional for single-statement blocks, it's a good practice to use themconsistently. This reduces the risk of errors when the code is modified in thefuture.
Summary:
Curly braces {} are essential in if-elsestatements for defining the scope of the code to be executed, preventinglogical errors, improving readability, and maintaining consistent codingpractices.