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Cr7country asked

Can we use void main instead of int main?

Kelish Rai
Expert
last month
Kelish Rai answered

Yes, you can technically use void main() instead of int main(). However, it's not recommended.

According to the C++ standard, the correct and portable way to define the main function is:

int main() {
    // your code here
    return 0;
}

This version is universally accepted and ensures that your program can properly communicate with the operating system. The return 0; statement signals that the program finished successfully.

If you use void main(), you won't be able to use return 0; because the function doesn’t return anything. That might not cause an error in some compilers, but it's considered non-standard and could lead to unpredictable behavior or reduced portability.

In short:

  • Use int main() for standard, portable, and reliable C++ code.

  • void main() might work in some environments, but it’s not guaranteed.

C++
This question was asked as part of the Learn C++ Basics course.