What are the best practices for using smart pointers in C++?

What are the best practices for using smart pointers in C++?

When using smart pointers in C++, it's important to choose the right type for your needs. Use std::unique_ptr for exclusive ownership, std::shared_ptr for shared ownership, and std::weak_ptr to avoid circular references.

Can you explain when to use std::shared_ptr over std::unique_ptr?

Use std::shared_ptr when multiple owners need to share the same resource. However, prefer std::unique_ptr when you only need a single owner, as it has less overhead.

What are the potential pitfalls of using std::shared_ptr?

The main pitfalls include circular references, which can lead to memory leaks, and the overhead of reference counting, which can impact performance.

How can I avoid circular references with std::shared_ptr?

To avoid circular references, use std::weak_ptr for one of the pointers in the relationship. This way, it doesn't contribute to the reference count.