Do not use a semicolon on the same line as an if, for, or while statement because it typically indicates programmer error and can result in unexpected behavior.

Noncompliant Code Example

In this noncompliant code example, a semicolon is used on the same line as an if statement:

if (a == b); {
  /* ... */
}

Compliant Solution

It is likely, in this example, that the semicolon was accidentally inserted:

if (a == b) {
  /* ... */
}

Automated Detection

Tool

Version

Checker

Description

Klocwork

SEMICOL

 

Related Guidelines

CERT Oracle Secure Coding Standard for Java55. Do not place a semicolon immediately following an if, for, or while condition
ISO/IEC TR 24772:2013Likely Incorrect Expression [KOA]
MITRE CWECWE-480, Use of incorrect operator

Bibliography

[Hatton 1995]Section 2.7.2, "Errors of Omission and Addition"