Thread: problem creating program to the specific specification

Hi all

I was wondering if I could have a little help on this. I currently have a code which will make the " * " character print out a triangle pattern. It currently prints out in the format:

Code:

How many lines? (an example of 4)

                         *
                       *  *
                     *  *  *
                  *  *  *  *

but I want it to be printed like this:

Code:

*
* *
* * *
* * * *

The code I am using is:

Code:

#include <iostream>
using namespace std;

void printStars(int blanks, int starsInLine);

int main()
{
  int noOfLines;
  int counter;
  int noOfBlanks;

  cout << "How many lines?";
  cin >> noOfLines;

  while (noOfLines < 0 || noOfLines > 4)
    {
      cout << "Number of star lines should be between 1 and 4" << endl ;
      cout << "How many lines?";
      cin >> noOfLines;
    }

  cout << endl << endl ;
  noOfBlanks = 30;

  for (counter = 1; counter <= noOfLines; counter++)
    {
      printStars(noOfBlanks, counter) ;
      noOfBlanks--;
    }

  return 0;

}

void printStars(int blanks, int starsInLine)
{
  int count;

  for (count = 1; count <= blanks; count++)
    cout << ' ';
  for (count = 1; count <= starsInLine; count++)
    cout << " * ";
  cout << endl ;
}

any ideas on how to make it print out in the format of

*
* *
* * *
* * * *

would be much appreciated.

Originally Posted by CornedBee

Why do I get the feeling that you found this code on the web and have no idea how it works?

I mean, there's no way you could have written this code and not know why it prints the stars centered, or how to make them left-aligned.

Ok I got it from a book, but I would like to get it working so that it can print it out like

*
* *
* * *
* * * *

Any help would be great.

Originally Posted by rushhour

Ok I got it from a book, but I would like to get it working so that it can print it out like

*
* *
* * *
* * * *

Any help would be great.

If I do that, will you make my computer architecture homework?
(I'll bet your ass this is a homework question

Originally Posted by EVOEx

If I do that, will you make my computer architecture homework?
(I'll bet your ass this is a homework question

But the thing is, I am stuck, and need advice from expert programmers. I joined this forum thinking I could get help. I find that I learn more when someone does it, and it helps me complete the other tasks set, if you get me. So please, just this once can you help me.

Originally Posted by laserlight

Describe what the current printStars() function does. If you understand what it does, you will understand how to change it to do what you want it to do.

Thanks ive got it working now!

But can you give me a hint on how to get it to this style:

Code:

*******
  *****
    ***
      *

Thanks in advance.

sorry i mean an upside equalateral triangle

Originally Posted by laserlight

Well, why not start with your "mistake"? If you can generate this:

you'll soon be able to generate the equilateral triangle.

I am sorry but I really am struggling now. It is probably obvious to do, but right now I am really getting frustrated with it and need yoyr help. I need the triangle to look like:

Code:

*********
 *******
  *****
   ***
    *

This will be the last thing I ask. And any help would be much appreciated.

Sorry still having problems.