Thread: Variables in variable names

  1. #1
    Registered User
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    Variables in variable names

    Hi,
    I am creating a code for a database for a uni project and I have run into a problem, and I have a subsequent question!
    When creating records to go in the database (string format) I would like to name the variables data'number' , where 'number' is another variable which counts the number of records in the database. I know this is not possible because visual Studio throws up an error! So is there a way of doing something like this? I am relatively new to C and I don't know much so this would be a great help.
    Thank you!
    Brad

  2. #2
    Registered User
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    You can use sprintf() to "print" variables to a string - as that what you're after?

    There's not really a way to create "dynamic" variable names in C, at least not ways that would be very useful for you.

    Code:
    $ cat cboard.c
    #define VAR(x, y) (x##y)
    
    int main(void)
    {
        int VAR(Test, 12) = 5;
        
        return 0;
    }
    $ gcc cboard.c -E
    << snip >>
    
    int main(void)
    {
        int (Test12) = 5;
    
        return 0;
    }

  3. #3
    and the hat of int overfl Salem's Avatar
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    > I would like to name the variables data'number' , where 'number' is another variable which counts the number of records in the database.
    How would this differ from an array like data[number]?

    You can create dynamic arrays just fine in C.
    Code:
    int number = 10; // you get this from wherever you want
    int *data = malloc( number * sizeof(*data) );
    If you dance barefoot on the broken glass of undefined behaviour, you've got to expect the occasional cut.
    If at first you don't succeed, try writing your phone number on the exam paper.

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