CS50 Pset3 plurality.c编译错误求助：expected identifier or '('

Hey there! Let's break down that compile error you're hitting in your CS50 Pset3 Plurality code. The error plurality.c:44:21: error: expected identifier or '(' usually means the compiler got confused—it was expecting a variable/function name or parentheses, but encountered something it couldn't parse correctly at that line.

Common Issues for Your Problematic Line #

Your error occurs on this line:

candidate[i].name = argv[i + 1];

Here are the most likely fixes to check:

1. Broken candidate Struct Definition
   The CS50 starter code includes a typedef struct for candidates. Make sure yours matches the initial version exactly—no missing characters or typos:

   typedef struct candidate
   {
       string name;
       int votes;
   } candidate;
   

   The #1 mistake here is forgetting the semicolon at the end of the typedef (right after } candidate;). Without that semicolon, the compiler won't recognize candidate as a valid type, so when you try to access .name, it throws this error.

2. Incorrect Candidate Array Declaration
   Before using candidate[i], you need to declare an array of candidate structs. Ensure you have a line like this (using the constant provided in the starter code):

   candidate candidates[MAX_CANDIDATES];
   

   If you misspelled the type name, omitted the array size, or messed up the declaration syntax, the compiler won't understand what candidate[i] refers to.

3. Syntax Error Before Line 44
   Compile errors often get reported on the first line where the compiler notices a problem, even if the actual mistake is earlier. Double-check the code right above line 44 for:

   • Missing semicolons on previous lines
   • Unclosed parentheses or curly braces
   • Miswritten function calls or variable declarations

For example, if you left an unclosed brace in a loop above line 44, the compiler would misinterpret the candidate[i].name line as part of that invalid block, triggering the "expected identifier or '('" error.

Quick Troubleshooting Steps #

1. Confirm your typedef struct candidate definition is complete and ends with a semicolon.
2. Verify your candidate array is declared correctly with the right type name and size.
3. Scan the lines immediately before line 44 for any missing punctuation or syntax typos.

内容的提问来源于stack exchange，提问作者EdCase