Largest of Three Numbers in C

Conditions

Compare three integers while keeping track of the largest value seen so far.

Complete program

#include <stdio.h>

int main(void) {
    int a, b, c;
    printf("Three integers: ");
    if (scanf("%d %d %d", &a, &b, &c) != 3) return 1;
    int largest = a;
    if (b > largest) largest = b;
    if (c > largest) largest = c;
    printf("Largest: %d\n", largest);
    return 0;
}

Try in Circuit →

Opens a new program without replacing your saved code. Press Run when you are ready.

How it works

Start with an actual input as the candidate, rather than zero. That matters when all three numbers are negative. Each comparison either preserves or replaces the current candidate.

Equal values need no special branch because the goal is the maximum value, not a unique winning position. Try 5 5 2 and then -8 -3 -10. This running-candidate pattern extends naturally to arrays.

Sample input

8 15 4

Enter these values when prompted. The transcript below includes typed responses.

Expected output

Three integers: 8 15 4
Largest: 15

Concepts to practice

• Comparison
• Assignment
• Maximum

Predict a different input or change one value, then compare the result with your prediction. Keep changes within the documented bounds and read warnings before trusting an answer.