C++ goto Statement – Jump to a Label in Your Code

Introduction – What Is the goto Statement in C++?

The goto statement in C++ provides a way to transfer control unconditionally to another part of the program by jumping to a labeled statement. While powerful, it is rarely used in modern C++ programming due to its tendency to create unstructured and hard-to-follow code.

In this guide, you’ll learn:

• Syntax of the goto statement
• How labels and jumps work
• Examples of valid and poor use cases
• Best practices and alternatives to goto

Syntax of goto Statement

goto label;
// code skipped
label:
    // destination code block

Example – Basic goto Usage

int x = 5;

if (x == 5) {
    goto skip;
}

cout << "This line is skipped";

skip:
cout << "Jumped to label";

Output:

Jumped to label

goto for Exiting Nested Loops

for (int i = 0; i < 3; i++) {
    for (int j = 0; j < 3; j++) {
        if (i == j) goto end;
        cout << i << ", " << j << endl;
    }
}
end:
cout << "Exited loops";

Common Mistakes

Best Practices

• Avoid goto unless absolutely necessary
• Use for exiting deeply nested loops or error handling in low-level systems
• Replace with functions, break, continue, or return where possible

Summary – Recap & Next Steps

Key Takeaways:

• goto jumps to a labeled part of code, bypassing structure
• Useful in limited cases like breaking nested loops
• Considered bad practice for regular control flow
• Prefer structured constructs like loops and functions

Real-World Relevance:
Still occasionally used in embedded systems, system-level code, or legacy C++ projects where structured constructs are limited.

FAQs – C++ goto Statement

Is goto bad in C++?
Generally yes. It makes code harder to follow and maintain.

Can I use goto to jump backward in code?
Yes, but be cautious. It can create loops or unintentional infinite jumps.

Is goto allowed in modern C++?
Yes, but it’s discouraged in favor of structured programming.

Can goto jump into another function?
No. You can only jump within the same function.

What is a good use of goto?
Exiting nested loops or in very low-level programming, such as error cleanup.