C String Functions

Definition and Usage

C string functions are the library calls you use for null-terminated text: length, copy, compare, search, tokenize, and memory helpers. Most live in <string.h> and take char* or const char* arguments.

Lesson vs this index

The C Strings page is the lesson: how char[], '\0', and literals work, plus buffer safety and examples. This page is the functions index—30 tutorials grouped by job. Open a row for syntax, examples, and FAQs for that one function.

What should beginners open first?

After the overview, start with strlen(), strcpy(), strcmp(), and strstr(). Those cover length, copy, compare, and search.

C Syntax

Every string.h call follows the same pattern—include, then call with pointers:

#include <stdio.h>
#include <string.h>

int main(void) {
    char dest[32];
    strcpy(dest, "Hello");
    strcat(dest, ", C");

    printf("%s (len=%zu)\n", dest, strlen(dest));

    return 0;
}
/* gcc string_call.c -std=c11 -o string_call */

Individual function pages show signatures, edge cases, and more examples. Use the tables below to jump to the right guide.

Choose a Function by Job

Not sure which tutorial to open? Match the job to a function:

Quick patterns cheat sheet

Jump to a category

How to Browse This Index

A practical path through the C string function tutorials:

1. If you still need null termination or char[] vs literals, open the C Strings lesson first.
2. Use Choose a Function by Job when you know the task but not the name.
3. Use the search box below when you already know the function name.
4. Browse categories when you want related APIs (for example all search helpers).
5. Open a tutorial for syntax, five examples, output, and FAQs—then return here for the next one.

C String Functions Index

30 tutorials. Search by name or scroll the categories. Each row opens a full guide.

Key Takeaways