Loops

In programming, loops are constructs that allow a set of instructions to be executed repeatedly until a specific condition is met. Loops are essential because they help automate repetitive tasks, reduce redundant code, and make programs more efficient and easier to maintain. Without loops, programmers would have to manually write the same code multiple times, which is time-consuming and prone to errors. 

Key Features of Loops

1. Automation – Loops save time by automating repetitive tasks.

2. Iteration through Data Structures – Loops are essential for processing arrays, lists, and other collections.

3. Flexibility – Loops can adapt to changing conditions, making them powerful for dynamic programs.

4. Nested Loops – Loops can be placed inside other loops, which is useful for multi-dimensional data, such as grids or tables.
   
   

Practical Applications

• Counting or generating sequences of numbers

• Processing elements of an array or list

• Continuously checking user input until it meets certain criteria

• Running a program repeatedly until a certain event occurs

Loops are one of the most foundational tools in programming, forming the backbone of iterative processes in software development. Mastering loops is key to writing efficient, clean, and powerful code.

For Loops

For loops are used when the number of wanted iterations of the loop is known before the loop begins (If you know how many times you want the loop to run beforehand).

Example For Loop:

for (int i = 0; i < 8; i++) {

System.out.println("Hello");

}
This loop would print "Hello" eight times

   }

While Loop

A while loop is used to run a set of code repeatedly until a certain condition is met. This means that, unlike a for loop, while loops can run an undetermined amount of times as long as the end condition has not been met.

boolean hello = False;

while (hello = False) {

System.out.println("Hello");

if (count/2 == 7) {

boolean hello = True;

}

}

This code will print "Hello" until a certain variable named count reaches a certain number which in this case is 14.