What is the correct way, according to the latest C standard, to define functions without parameters: int main()
or int main(void)
?
Both forms of definition are valid (the one without void
is an invalid prototype and an incomplete (albeit valid) declaration).
The form int main(void) { /* whetever */ }
also provides a prototype for the function.
The form int main() { /* whatever */ }
does not provide a prototype (and the compiler cannot check if it is called correctly).
See the Standard (PDF)
6.7.5.3/14
An empty list in a function declarator that is part of a definition of that function specifies that the function has no parameters.
difference between definition: int main() { /* whatever */ }
and declaration: int main();
and prototype: int main(void);
.
The definition does not provide a prototype;
the declaration is valid but specifies no information about the number or types of parameters;
the prototype is ok and compatible with the definition.