C PROGRAMMING PROGRAM • FUNCTIONS, PREPROCESSOR & COMMAND LINE

Find a Maximum Using a Function-like Macro

Learn how to find a maximum using a function-like macro using a clear C program.

Beginner#defineConditional operatorMacro safety

PROBLEM UNDERSTANDING

Input and expected output

Sample input

28 19

Sample output

Maximum = 28

COMPLETE C PROGRAM

Complete C implementation

#include <stdio.h>

#define MAXIMUM(first, second) ((first) > (second) ? (first) : (second))

int main(void)
{
    int first, second;
    printf("Enter two integers: ");
    scanf("%d %d", &first, &second);
    printf("Maximum = %d\n", MAXIMUM(first, second));
    return 0;
}

CURRENT STEP

Select Start to walk through the important lines.

SELECTED LINE

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EXPECTED OUTPUT FOR THE SAMPLE

Maximum = 28

0%Step 0 of 0

PROGRAM EXPLANATION

Algorithm and explanation

Read the required input values.
Use a fully parenthesized macro expression to select the larger argument.
Display the computed result.

Use a fully parenthesized macro expression to select the larger argument.

EFFICIENCY

Time and space complexity

Time complexity

O(1)

Auxiliary space

O(1)

DEBUGGING CHECKLIST

Common mistakes

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Use the correct format specifier for every variable.

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Initialize variables before using their values.

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Check braces, semicolons and input order carefully.

Try it yourself

Practice: Run the program with the sample input, predict its output, and then test one boundary case of your own.