C PROGRAMMING PROGRAM • DECISION MAKING

Find the Smallest of Three Numbers

Learn how to find the smallest of three numbers using a clear C program.

Beginnerif statementsComparisonRunning minimum

PROBLEM UNDERSTANDING

Input and expected output

Sample input

19 4 12

Sample output

Smallest = 4

COMPLETE C PROGRAM

Complete C implementation

#include <stdio.h>

int main(void)
{
    int first, second, third, smallest;

    printf("Enter three integers: ");
    scanf("%d %d %d", &first, &second, &third);
    smallest = first;
    if (second < smallest) smallest = second;
    if (third < smallest) smallest = third;
    printf("Smallest = %d\n", smallest);
    return 0;
}

CURRENT STEP

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SELECTED LINE

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EXPECTED OUTPUT FOR THE SAMPLE

Smallest = 4

0%Step 0 of 0

PROGRAM EXPLANATION

Algorithm and explanation

Read the required input values.
Assume the first value is smallest and update the running minimum after each comparison.
Display the computed result.

Assume the first value is smallest and update the running minimum after each comparison.

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.