When should i use references, and when ought to use pointers, C/C++ Programming

Assignment Help:

A: Use references when you can use, and use pointers when you have to.

References are generally preferred over pointers whenever you don't require "reseating". Usually this means that references are most useful in class's public interface. Typically references appear on the skin of an object, & pointers on the inside.

The exception to the above is where a function's parameter or return value require a "sentinel" reference a reference which does not refer to an object. Usually this is best done by returning/taking a pointer, & giving the NULL pointer this special significance (references must always alias objects, not dereferenced NULL pointer).

Note: Old line C programmers sometimes don't like references as they provide reference semantics which isn't explicit in the caller's code. However, after some C++ experience, one quickly realizes it is a form of information hiding, which is an asset instead of a liability. E.g., programmers must write code in the language of the problem instead of the language of the machine.

 


Related Discussions:- When should i use references, and when ought to use pointers

Explain function overloading, Function Overloading Function overloading...

Function Overloading Function overloading is a form of polymorphism. Function overloading facilitates explaining one function having many forms. In other words it facilitates e

How many non-boundary pits and peaks are on the map, Armed with your functi...

Armed with your function from above, we can do some interesting things. For instance, any pixel where the offsets are both zero is a pit (lower than all surrounding points) .

Can i overload operator == so it allow me compare two char[], Q: Can I over...

Q: Can I overload operator == so it allow me compare two char[] by a string comparison? A: No: at least one operand of particular overloaded operator should be of some user-defi

What are pre-processor directives, What are pre-processor directives? -...

What are pre-processor directives? - Pre-processor directives are placed at the beginning of a C program. They begin with # symbol. - This is the place, where library files

PROGRAMMING, PROCEDUAL PROGRAMMING INTRODUCTION

PROCEDUAL PROGRAMMING INTRODUCTION

Programming Exercise 3, I have an exercise with 2 problems. One that is par...

I have an exercise with 2 problems. One that is partially completed except with read problems with memory overwrite, and the other problem. I have enclosed the instructions documen

Cange to palindrome, A palindrome is a string that reads the same from the ...

A palindrome is a string that reads the same from the both the ends. Given a string S convert it to a palindrome by doing character replacement. Your takes is to convert S to palin

C program to copy the contents of a file, C Program to copy the contents of...

C Program to copy the contents of a file: void main()    {   ifstream fin("input.txt");   ofstream fout("output.txt");   char ch;   while (fin)       {

Dll, i need amibroker afl to dll plugin

i need amibroker afl to dll plugin

Write Your Message!

Captcha
Free Assignment Quote

Assured A++ Grade

Get guaranteed satisfaction & time on delivery in every assignment order you paid with us! We ensure premium quality solution document along with free turntin report!

All rights reserved! Copyrights ©2019-2020 ExpertsMind IT Educational Pvt Ltd