FYBCom(CA) C Practical Slip 3 Q 1.B

Calculate Maximum and Minimum of Three Numbers in C Using if…else

1. Introduction

Learning how to find the maximum and minimum of numbers is a fundamental skill for beginner C programmers. It helps you understand decision-making in programming.

2.Problem Statement

Question: Write a C program to calculate the maximum and minimum of three numbers using the if…else statement.

3. Logic

To find the maximum and minimum of three numbers:

1. Compare the first number with the second and third to determine the maximum.
2. Similarly, compare the numbers to find the minimum.
3. Use nested if…else statements to check each condition step by step.

4. Source Code

Here is a beginner-friendly C program to solve this problem:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int num1, num2, num3, max, min;

    printf("Enter three numbers: ");
    scanf("%d %d %d", &num1, &num2, &num3);

    // Find maximum
    if(num1 >= num2 && num1 >= num3) {
        max = num1;
    } else if(num2 >= num1 && num2 >= num3) {
        max = num2;
    } else {
        max = num3;
    }

    // Find minimum
    if(num1 <= num2 && num1 <= num3) {
        min = num1;
    } else if(num2 <= num1 && num2 <= num3) {
        min = num2;
    } else {
        min = num3;
    }

    printf("Maximum number: %d\n", max);
    printf("Minimum number: %d\n", min);

    return 0;
}

5. Sample Output

Enter three numbers: 12 45 7
Maximum number: 45
Minimum number: 7

6. Viva Questions

1. Q: Which C statement is used to make decisions?
   A: if…else statement.
2. Q: Can we find max and min without if…else?
   A: Yes, using conditional operators or built-in functions.
3. Q: What happens if two numbers are equal and maximum?
   A: The program will still correctly assign the maximum using >=.
4. Q: Can this program handle negative numbers?
   A: Yes, it works for both positive and negative numbers.
5. Q: What is the purpose of scanf in this program?
   A: To read three numbers input by the user.