Computer Programming Loops Explained with Examples (C, Java, Python)

In daily life, many tasks repeat—brushing your teeth every morning, attending class daily, or checking messages frequently. In programming, when you need to execute a block of code multiple times, you use Programming loops.

Loops allow a program to automatically repeat actions without writing the same code again and again. This makes programs shorter, faster, and more efficient.

What Are Loops?

A loop is a control structure that repeats a block of code as long as a specified condition remains true.

You use loops when:

You need to run the same operation multiple times
You want to process lists, arrays, or repetitive tasks
You want to reduce code repetition

Most languages support three core loops:

for loop
while loop
do…while loop

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For Loop

A for loop repeats a block of code a known number of times.

Syntax (C and Java)

for (initialization; condition; increment) {
    // code
}

Example in C

for (int i = 1; i <= 5; i++) {
    printf("%d\n", i);
}

Python Equivalent

Python uses a simplified for loop:

for i in range(1, 6):
    print(i)

While Loop

A while loop continues running as long as the condition remains true.

C Example

int i = 1;
while (i <= 5) {
    printf("%d\n", i);
    i++;
}

Python

i = 1
while i <= 5:
    print(i)
    i += 1

Do…While Loop (C/Java Only)

This loop executes at least once, even if the condition is false, because the condition is checked after running the code.

Example

int i = 1;
do {
    printf("%d\n", i);
    i++;
} while (i <= 5);

Python does not have a do…while loop, but you can simulate it:

i = 1
while True:
    print(i)
    i += 1
    if i > 5:
        break

Loop Control Statements

These statements help manage loop behavior.

break

Stops the loop immediately.

for (int i = 1; i <= 10; i++) {
    if (i == 5) break;
    printf("%d\n", i);
}

continue

Skips the current iteration and moves to the next.

for i in range(1, 6):
    if i == 3:
        continue
    print(i)

Why Loops Are Important

Loops help in:

Processing large sets of data
Automating repetitive tasks
Reducing code duplication
Improving program efficiency

Loops are fundamental in all programming languages, and mastering them is essential for becoming a good programmer.

FAQ

What is a loop in programming?

A loop repeatedly executes a block of code as long as a condition is true.

What are the main types of loops?

The three main loops are for, while, and do…while.

Which languages support do…while loops?

C and Java support do…while, but Python does not (though you can simulate it).

When should I use a for loop?

Use a for loop when you know how many times the task should repeat.

What is the purpose of break and continue?

break stops the loop; continue skips to the next iteration.