What is the difference between `char* string` and `char *string` in C ?

Understanding the Difference: char vs char string

When declaring null-terminated strings in C , the format of the declaration can raise questions. The options are "char string" or "char string." To understand the difference, let's delve into each declaration:

"char* string":
In this declaration, "string" is a pointer to a character. It indicates that "string" holds the address of a character. Essentially, "string" itself is not a character but a pointer pointing to a memory location that stores a character.

"char *string":
Contrary to the previous declaration, here "string" is a single character. The declaration implies that "string" is a character in its own right, not a pointer to a character.

Based on these distinctions, it becomes evident that "char* string" is the more appropriate declaration because it accurately represents the nature of the object as a pointer to a character.

Why the Latter Format is Commonly Seen:
Although "char string" makes more logical sense, the conventional format "char string" is often observed. This practice stems from a potential issue in declaring multiple variables in a single line. Consider the following snippet:

char* string1, string2;

This declaration can lead to ambiguity as it is unclear whether "string2" is also a pointer or a single character. To avoid such confusion, it is generally accepted to use "char string" when declaring multiple variables, reserving "char string" for individual pointer declarations.

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