What are the best practices for inlining functions in programming?

What are the best practices for inlining functions in programming?

Inlining functions can improve performance by reducing function call overhead. Best practices include: 1. Use inlining for small, frequently called functions. 2. Avoid inlining large functions to prevent code bloat. 3. Use compiler hints or keywords (like 'inline' in C++) to suggest inlining.

Are there any downsides to inlining functions?

Yes, there are downsides. Inlining can increase the size of the binary, leading to cache misses. It can also complicate debugging and reduce code readability.

How do I decide which functions to inline?

Consider inlining functions that are small, called frequently, and have minimal side effects. Profiling your code can help identify candidates.

Can inlining affect performance negatively?

Yes, excessive inlining can lead to larger binaries, which may negatively impact performance due to increased cache usage and reduced instruction locality.