What is the Difference Between Procedures and Functions in Programming?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚The main difference between procedures and functions in programming lies in their purpose, return values, and usage:
- Purpose:
- Functions are used to calculate results based on given inputs and perform tasks in a specific order.
- Procedures are used to perform certain tasks based on the given inputs and do not return any value to the calling function or code.
- Return Values:
- Functions always return a value after execution.
- Procedures can return a value using "IN OUT" and "OUT" arguments, but they do not have to.
- Usage:
- Functions can be called within a query.
- Procedures can be called within a query, but they cannot be called by a function.
- DML Statements:
- DML (INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE) statements cannot be executed within a function.
- DML statements can be executed within a procedure.
- Calling:
- A function can be called by a procedure.
- A procedure cannot be called by a function.
In summary, functions are typically used to calculate and return values based on given inputs, while procedures are used to perform tasks without necessarily returning a value. The choice between using a function or a procedure depends on the specific requirements of the programming task at hand.
Comparative Table: Procedures vs Functions in Programming
Here is a table highlighting the differences between procedures and functions in programming:
Feature | Functions | Procedures |
---|---|---|
Definition | A function is a block of code that performs a specific task and returns a value. | A procedure is a block of code that performs a specific task and does not return a value. |
Input/Output | Functions can only have input parameters. | Procedures can have input and output parameters. |
Data Modification | Functions can only read data. | Procedures can read and modify data. |
Calling | Functions can be called from a procedure. | Procedures cannot be called from a function. |
DML Statements | DML statements cannot be executed within a function. | DML statements can be executed within a procedure. |
Query Execution | Functions can be called within a query. | Procedures cannot be called within a query. |
Return Value | Functions must return a value. | Procedures do not have to return a value. |
In summary, functions are used to perform specific tasks and return a value, whereas procedures are used to perform tasks in a specific order without returning a value. Functions can only read data and be called within a query, while procedures can read and modify data and execute DML statements.
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