Arrays

6. Arrays#

When you need to store many values of the same type, arrays are the answer. This chapter covers one-dimensional and multi-dimensional arrays, including how to declare, initialize, and traverse them efficiently.

Why this chapter matters

Arrays are the foundation of all structured data storage:

  • hold a fixed number of values under one name

  • access any element in constant time using an index

  • pass collections of values to and from methods

  • model grids, matrices, and tables with 2D arrays

Learning goals

By the end of this chapter, you should be able to:

  • declare, initialize, and access 1D arrays

  • traverse an array with for and foreach loops

  • declare and work with 2D rectangular arrays

  • pass arrays to methods and return them as results

Chapter flow