switch function

switch Function with Automatic Fallthrough Prevention

The switch function enables multi-way branching based on the value of an expression. Unlike traditional C-style switch statements, this variant automatically prevents fallthrough between cases and allows also for string comparisons , eliminating the need for break statements at the end of each case.

Structure of the switch Function

Components:

  1. Expression: An expression whose value is compared against the constants in each case block.
  2. Case Blocks: Each case distinguishes specific values for the expression. A match causes the associated code to execute.
  3. Default Block: If no case matches the expression, the default block executes if provided.

Simple Example

    value = 2;

    switch (value) {

        case (1)

            lib.log(“Value is 1”);

        case (2)

            lib.log(“Value is 2”);

        default

            lib.log(“Value is something else”);

    };

Explanation:

  • Match and Isolate: When value is matched with a case, only the corresponding block executes. The execution does not fall through to subsequent cases.
  • No break Needed: Automatic prevention of fallthrough simplifies function semantics and reduces boilerplate code.

Practical Use

  • Control Flow Simplification: Automatically isolated cases reduce the risk of accidental fallthrough, making code more intuitive and less error-prone.
  • Readability: Eliminates the potential clutter of required break statements after each case block, enhancing readability.
  • Maintainability: Reduces the probability of common errors associated with accidental fallthrough.