What is the purpose of converting data type?

[snapper]

I'm having trouble understanding data type. I believe the purpose is to allow other programs to recognize the various data type within programs, however, I can't seem to find the "concrete wording" as to the purpose of converting data types. Additionally, in regards to explicit and implicit type conversion, my understanding is that in implicit data type, the program makes the decision for you as the format, while in explicit data type, allows the programmer makes the decision.

Any help will be appreciated,

Thanks in advance,
Snapper

[Katty]

You are right with the meaning of the implicit and the explicit data type conversion. The purpose of converting data type is that you can use the same variable for multiple purposes. It also avoids the purpose of declaring different variables for different data types. Moreover, using the conversion method increases the speed of the program as well as reduces the work of the programmer.