In C# what is the difference between myInt++ and ++myInt?

Question

I\'m having a hard time understanding what the difference is between incrementing a variable in C# this way:

myInt++;

and

Answer 1

I think it is simplest to understand in terms of the order of evaluation and modification.

• The postfix operator (x++) evaluates first and modifies last.
• The prefix operator (++x) modifies first and evaluates last.

(the order of operations is evident in the typed order of the operator and the variable)

I.e. when used in an expression, the postfix operator evaluates and uses the variable's current value in the expression (a return statement or method call) before applying the operator. With the prefix operator it is the other way around.