What are some common pitfalls when using smart pointers in C++?

What are some common pitfalls when using smart pointers in C++?

Some common pitfalls include circular references, improper use of std::shared_ptr, and forgetting to reset smart pointers.

Can you explain how circular references occur with smart pointers?

Circular references happen when two or more shared pointers reference each other, preventing them from being deallocated.

How can I avoid circular references in my code?

You can use std::weak_ptr to break the cycle, allowing one pointer to reference the other without increasing the reference count.

What about performance issues with smart pointers?

Smart pointers can introduce overhead due to reference counting, especially with std::shared_ptr. Use std::unique_ptr when possible for better performance.