convert char to a specific value in c++

Question

I need to solve a problem that requires me to compare cards in a 52-card deck by suit and by rank. However, the problem arises when I am faced with comparing cards such as the Queen or the King, as they are noted as "Q" or "K", so I cannot hold them in my card's value, as that is declared as int.

How can I assign the letters such as Q or K integer values so I can assign that numeric value to the card?

Answer 1

You can take the numeric values for the cards from 2 to 10, and then continue with J = 11, Q = 12, K = 13. Ace will be either one or 14, depending on whether it is below two or above the King.

One way is to use a switch statement

int value;
char card;
switch (card) {
case 'J':
    value = 11;
    break;
case 'Q':
    value = 12;
    break;
case 'K':
    value = 13;
    break;
case 'A':
    value = 14;
    break;
}

Answer 2

Number all the cards in the deck from 0-51.

Have a separate array (or two) that specifies that, for example, card #0 is ace of spades, card #1 is two of spades, and so on, giving the rank and suit of every card in the deck.

Now, compare your cards in any way you wish.