What is the difference between scanf() and printf()?

In C, scanf() is used to read input from the user, while printf() is used to display output on the screen.

Think of it this way:

• scanf() receives data (input)

• printf() sends data to the screen (output)

Example:

#include <stdio.h>

int main() {
    int age;

    printf("Enter your age: ");    // Output
    scanf("%d", &age);    // Input

    printf("You are %d years old.", age);    // Output
    return 0;
}

Here, printf() first prompts the user, and then scanf() captures the input into the age variable. After that, printf() is used again to show the result.