S3L1. Use of * and & | Understanding C - Pointers

Companion Repository: https://github.com/pyjamabrah/c-point...

Welcome to this in-depth tutorial on understanding the use of ampersands (&) and asterisks (*) in C programming, specifically when working with pointers! In this video, we dive into the often-confusing world of pointers, exploring how these symbols function in expressions—whether they denote logical operations, memory addresses, or dereferencing. Through hands-on examples, we’ll uncomment and run code step-by-step, dissecting how the compiler interprets these symbols in different contexts. Perfect for beginners and intermediate learners looking to solidify their grasp of C pointers.

🔍 What You’ll Learn:
The difference between & as a logical AND vs. an address-of operator.
How * can mean multiplication or dereferencing, depending on context.
Common pitfalls when mixing pointers and integers in expressions.
Practical examples with compilation and execution to see results in action.

💻 Follow Along:
Grab your code editor and terminal—we’ll be compiling with gcc and running examples to clarify these concepts. Whether you're a student, hobbyist, or aspiring developer, this video will help you master pointers in C!

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Timeline:
00:00 - Introduction to Pointers and Symbols
00:06 - Asterisks in Expressions
00:21 - Setting Up the Example
01:02 - Terminal Setup
01:21 - Initial Code Breakdown
02:31 - Compiling and Running the First Example
03:12 - Understanding Addresses and Garbage Values
04:49 - Logical AND with Ampersand
06:09 - Recompiling and Analyzing Output
07:18 - Assigning Pointers with Ampersand
08:32 - Why Pointers Can’t Be ANDed with Integers
09:30 - Address-of Operator Confusion
11:11 - Key Takeaway on Ampersand Usage
12:00 - Type Casting with Ampersand
14:13 - Running the Casted Example
15:45 - Parentheses and Readability
17:41 - Shifting Focus to Asterisks
19:15 - Multiplication Error with Pointers
20:25 - Dereferencing with Asterisks
21:33 - Running the Dereference Example
22:28 - Parentheses for Clarity
23:14 - Conclusion and Practice Encouragement