What are the best practices for using 'defer' in Go?

What are the best practices for using 'defer' in Go?

Using 'defer' in Go is great for resource management. Best practices include deferring close calls for files and network connections, and using it for cleanup tasks.

Can you give an example of how to use 'defer' effectively?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

func readFile(filename string) {
    file, err := os.Open(filename)
    if err != nil {
        log.Fatal(err)
    }
    defer file.Close() // Ensures the file is closed when the function exits
    // Read from the file...
}

Are there any performance considerations when using 'defer'?

Yes, while 'defer' is convenient, it can introduce a slight overhead. If performance is critical, consider using it judiciously.

What are some common mistakes to avoid with 'defer'?

Common mistakes include deferring calls in loops, which can lead to unexpected behavior, and not considering the order of deferred calls.