When to initialize the local variables?

[Chris Dollin]

Surely this is not always possible, say, when the variable is
initialised by a call to a function. Think scanf()...

Yes, it's not /always/ possible. But when it /is/ possible, I think it
is to be preferred.

As usual, clarity trumps everything [1] except user requirements.

[1] As you know, Bob, there are two trumps, either of which can be
a colour or a number.

 

[CBFalconer]

.... snip ...

[1] As you know, Bob, there are two trumps, either of which can be
a colour or a number.

I believe there are more. Ivana, ...