---
title: "2.5 Stream Extraction Operator (>>)"
description: "The stream extraction operator (`>>`) is used to read data from an input stream. It extracts characters from the stream, converts them to the required data type, and stores the result in a variable. The extraction operator is most commonly…"
url: "https://edcret.in/docs/cpp-programming/input-and-output-cplusplus/2-5-stream-extraction-operator/"
updated: "2026-07-28"
category: C++ Programming / Input and Output
---

# 2.5 Stream Extraction Operator (>>)

The stream extraction operator (`>>`) is used to read data from an input stream. It extracts characters from the stream, converts them to the required data type, and stores the result in a variable.

The extraction operator is most commonly used with `std::cin` to read input from the keyboard. Multiple values can be extracted in a single statement by chaining the operator.

## Source Code

```
#include <iostream>

int main()
{
    int age;
    float salary;

    std::cout << "Enter age and salary: ";
    std::cin >> age >> salary;

    std::cout << "Age: " << age << '\n';
    std::cout << "Salary: " << salary << '\n';

    return 0;
}
```

## Output

```
Enter age and salary: 25 45000.5
Age: 25
Salary: 45000.5
```

## Explanation

- The stream extraction operator (`>>`) extracts data from an input stream.
- `std::cin` is the standard input stream object used to read data from the keyboard.
- The extraction operator reads characters from the input stream, converts them to the destination data type, and stores the result in the specified variable.
- Multiple extraction operators can be chained together to read several values from a single input statement.
- By default, the extraction operator skips leading whitespace such as spaces, tabs, and newline characters before reading the next value.
- Input values must be compatible with the destination variable's data type. Otherwise, the input operation fails and the stream enters the fail state.
- After successful extraction, the stored values can be displayed using `std::cout`.
- `return 0;` terminates the program successfully.