We've now learned both for loops and while loops. They're both powerful tools for repetition, but when should you choose one over the other?

Engagement Message

Which type of loop do you think would be better for printing your name 10 times?

Use a for loop when you know the number of iterations ahead of time. This includes iterating over every item in a collection (like an array) or using a specific, counted range.

This is for definite iteration—when the number of repetitions is known before the loop starts.

Engagement Message

Can you give an example of a situation where using a for loop is the best choice?

Use a while loop when you need to repeat something until a certain condition changes, but you don't know how many times that will take.

This is for indefinite iteration—the number of repetitions is not known in advance.

Engagement Message

Think of a video game. When might you use a while loop for a player's turn?

Here's a helpful way to think about it:

• for = "Do this X times" or "Do this for each item."
• = "Keep doing this as long as this condition is true."