A linked list in C is a simple dynamic data structure consisting of elements called nodes. Each node contains data (such as a variable or object) as well as a pointer to the next node in the list.

Here's what a typical node in a singly linked list looks like in C:

If instead of a pointer to the next node you try to simply create an instance of a new node, you will get an error.

The compiler will not be able to allocate memory for such a structure, since it contains itself.

(It's like trying to look at yourself from the outside with your own eyes)

Using a pointer solves this problem because the compiler knows how much memory to allocate for a pointer variable.

Note

The last node pointer will always be NULL.