What are the best practices for C++ collection management?

What are the best practices for managing collections in C++?

When managing collections in C++, it's important to choose the right container, like std::vector or std::list, based on your needs.

How do I decide between using std::vector and std::list?

Use std::vector for random access and when you need to frequently add or remove elements at the end. Use std::list for frequent insertions and deletions from anywhere in the collection.

Are there any performance considerations I should be aware of?

Yes, consider the time complexity of operations. std::vector has O(1) access time, while std::list has O(n) for access. Also, resizing a vector can be costly.

What about memory management with these collections?

C++ handles memory management automatically for standard containers, but be cautious with custom objects. Always ensure proper resource management to avoid leaks.