What Is the Range of Short Data Type?

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Heather Bennett

What Is the Range of Short Data Type?

When working with programming languages, it is important to understand the different data types and their respective ranges. In this article, we will dive into the short data type and explore its range.

Introduction to the Short Data Type

The short data type is a commonly used integer data type in programming. It is typically used when memory optimization is a concern or when a smaller range of values is sufficient for the task at hand.

In most programming languages, a short integer typically occupies 2 bytes (16 bits) of memory. This means that it can store values ranging from -32,768 to 32,767.

The Range of the Short Data Type

The range of the short data type can be divided into two parts:

  • Positive Range: The positive range of the short data type starts from 0 and goes up to 32,767. This allows for a total of 32,768 possible values.
  • Negative Range: The negative range starts from -1 and goes down to -32,768. Just like the positive range, it also allows for a total of 32,768 possible values.

Using the Short Data Type

To declare a variable as a short data type in most programming languages, you can use the keyword “short” followed by the variable name. Here’s an example in C++:


short myNumber;

You can then assign values within the valid range to this variable:


myNumber = 15000;

It’s important to note that if you try to assign a value outside the valid range, it may result in unexpected behavior or errors. Be mindful of the range and ensure that the values you assign are within the acceptable limits.

Conclusion

The short data type is a useful integer data type that allows us to store values within a smaller range. By understanding its range and limitations, we can use it effectively in our programming projects. Remember to always double-check the valid range and avoid assigning values outside of it.

Now that you have a good understanding of the range of the short data type, you can confidently utilize it in your programming endeavors!

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