What is meant by data type?

Table of Contents

• Definition
• Why Are Data Types Important?
• Types of Data Types
  • 1. Primitive Data Types (Basic types)
  • 2. Non-Primitive Data Types (Complex types)
• Example in Different Languages
  • C++ Example
  • Python Example
• Conclusion

Definition

A data type in programming defines the kind of data a variable can store and what operations can be performed on it. It ensures that variables use memory efficiently and prevent errors in computations.

Why Are Data Types Important?

1. Memory Efficiency – Allocates appropriate memory space for different types of data.
2. Data Integrity – Prevents incorrect operations (e.g., adding a string to a number).
3. Performance Optimization – Helps the compiler or interpreter manage resources efficiently.

Types of Data Types

1. Primitive Data Types (Basic types)

These are the fundamental building blocks of data representation.

Data Type	Description	Example
Integer (int)	Stores whole numbers	int num = 10; (C, C++)
Float/Double	Stores decimal numbers	float pi = 3.14;
Character (char)	Stores a single character	char letter = 'A';
Boolean (bool)	Stores true or false	bool isActive = true;
String	Stores text (sequence of characters)	string name = "John"; (Java, Python)

2. Non-Primitive Data Types (Complex types)

These are derived from primitive types and can store multiple values.

Type	Description	Example
Array	Collection of elements of the same type	int arr[5] = {1,2,3,4,5};
Pointer	Stores memory address of a variable	int *ptr = #
Reference	Alias for another variable	int &ref = num;
Struct/Class	User-defined data structures	class Car { int speed; };

Example in Different Languages

C++ Example

Python Example

Conclusion

A data type specifies what kind of data a variable holds and how it can be used in a program.

• Primitive types include integers, floats, characters, and booleans.
• Non-primitive types include arrays, pointers, and user-defined structures.