A statement is a discrete instruction in a script that causes something to happen.

The statements in JavaScript can be classified into several categories. Here are the basic set of classifications:

• Block - Some code enclosed in braces.

• Variable statement - A declaration of a local or global variable.

• Empty statement - A semi-colon on its own.

• Expression statement - An operator and its require operand(s).

• If statement - Conditional execution of a block of code with an optional alternative block of code.

• Iterative statement - A means of executing a block of code repetitively until a test condition is satisfied.

• Switch selector - A means of executing one of a variety of possible code blocks selecting the best according to an input value.

• Continue statement - A way of cancelling an iteration and commencing the next.

• Break statement - Means of breaking out of an iteration or a switch selector.

• Return statement - A way to unconditionally leave a function and return to its caller, optionally handing back a value.

• With statement - A means of adding an object to a scope chain.

Statements are executed in the order in which they appear in the script source text except when the flow of control is redirected by a conditional switching expression, function call, iterator or jump statement.

Cross-references:

ECMA 262 edition 2 - section 12

ECMA 262 edition 3 - section 12

Wrox Instant JavaScript - page 16