Returning multiple values from a C function

Question

Important: Please see this very much related question: Return multiple values in C++.

I\'m after how to do the same thing in ANSI C? Would you use a

Answer 1

Both ways are valid, certianly, but I would would consider the semantics (struct vs parameter reference) to decide which way best communicates you intentions to the programmer.

If the values you are returning are tightly coupled, then it is okay to return them as a structure. But, if you are simply creating artificial mechanism to return values together (as a struct), then you should use a parameter reference (i.e. pass the address of the variables) to return the values back to the calling function.