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: 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::weak_ptr?

Sure! Use std::weak_ptr to break circular references in shared ownership scenarios, preventing memory leaks.

What are the performance implications of using smart pointers?

Smart pointers can introduce some overhead compared to raw pointers, especially with std::shared_ptr due to reference counting, but they greatly enhance safety and manage memory automatically.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid with smart pointers?

Yes, common mistakes include mixing raw pointers with smart pointers, creating circular references with std::shared_ptr, and not using std::make_shared or std::make_unique for allocation.