What are the best practices for using unique_ptr in C++?

What are the best practices for using unique_ptr in C++?

Using unique_ptr is a great way to manage dynamic memory in C++. Here are some best practices: 1. Always prefer unique_ptr over raw pointers for ownership. 2. Use std::make_unique to create unique_ptr instances. 3. Avoid using unique_ptr in containers unless necessary.

Can you explain why std::make_unique is preferred?

Certainly! std::make_unique helps prevent memory leaks by ensuring that the memory is allocated and managed correctly. It also makes the code cleaner and safer by avoiding potential issues with manual memory management.

Are there any situations where I shouldn't use unique_ptr?

Yes, you should avoid using unique_ptr when you need shared ownership of an object. In such cases, std::shared_ptr is more appropriate. Also, if the object needs to be copied, unique_ptr won't work since it cannot be copied.

What happens if I try to copy a unique_ptr?

If you try to copy a unique_ptr, you'll get a compilation error because unique_ptr is designed to be non-copyable. This ensures that there is only one owner of the resource at any time.