C++ Templates

Introduction to C++ Templates

C++ templates are a powerful feature that allows programmers to write generic and reusable code. By using templates, you can create functions and classes that operate on any data type, allowing for cleaner and more efficient code. Templates are extensively used in the C++ Standard Library, most notably in the STL (Standard Template Library).

Function Templates

Function templates define a blueprint for functions that can work with any data type. Instead of writing multiple overloads for a function, a single template can handle different data types. Here's an example of a function template:

In this example, the add function template can add two numbers of any type. Whether you pass integers, doubles, or other types that support the + operator, the template will generate the appropriate function for the provided arguments.

Class Templates

Class templates work similarly to function templates. They allow you to create a class definition that can handle any data type. Here is an example of a simple stack class using a template:

The Stack class template can be instantiated for any data type. In the main function, we create a stack of integers and a stack of strings, demonstrating the versatility of class templates.

Template Specialization

Sometimes, you may need to customize the behavior of a template for a specific data type. This is where template specialization comes in. It allows you to define a different implementation of a template for a particular type:

In this example, the Printer class template is specialized for char*. While the primary template handles all types generically, the specialization provides a custom implementation for character pointers.

Conclusion

C++ templates are a cornerstone of generic programming in C++. They provide flexibility and power, enabling developers to write code that is both reusable and type-safe. Understanding templates is crucial for mastering C++ and leveraging its full capabilities.