How can I implement a `javascript goto`-like behavior in my code?

General Discussions
, ,
1

I need to create a loop where execution jumps back to a specific label, similar to using goto, like in this example:

start:
alert("RINSE");
alert("LATHER");
repeat: goto start

Is there a way to achieve this in JavaScript?

2

I’ve been working with JavaScript for several years, and while there’s no native javascript goto like in older languages, you can get very close using loops.

Here’s a simple approach using a while loop with a condition:

function rinseLather() {
    let repeat = true;
    while (repeat) {
        alert("RINSE");
        alert("LATHER");
        
        // Ask user if they want to repeat
        repeat = confirm("Do you want to repeat?");
    }
}
rinseLather();

By using this loop, you effectively simulate a javascript goto by looping back to the top until the user decides to stop. It’s clean, readable, and leverages the control structures JavaScript is designed for.

3

Jumping in as someone who’s dealt with similar patterns, I’d add that if you specifically want the block to run at least once (which sounds like your rinse-lather-repeat case), a do...while loop is an even closer match to a javascript goto feel.

function rinseLather() {
    let repeat;
    do {
        alert("RINSE");
        alert("LATHER");
        
        // Ask user if they want to repeat
        repeat = confirm("Do you want to repeat?");
    } while (repeat);
}
rinseLather();

This guarantees the sequence runs at least once before checking whether to loop again — subtly improving the “jump back” effect you’re asking for when mimicking a javascript goto.

4

As someone who’s explored both functional and imperative patterns, I’d suggest pushing it a bit further: recursion can mimic a javascript goto by directly re-invoking the function at the point you want to jump back to.

function rinseLather() {
    alert("RINSE");
    alert("LATHER");

    // Ask if they want to repeat
    if (confirm("Do you want to repeat?")) {
        rinseLather();  // Recursive call to simulate jumping back
    }
}

rinseLather();

This recursive approach gives you a natural ‘jump’ back to the top, much like a javascript goto. Just be aware: deep recursion can hit stack limits, but for interactive loops like this, it’s usually safe — and sometimes even makes the intent clearer than a loop.