C++: Try-Catch vs If

What's the difference between using try-catch and if statements for error handling in C++?

In C++, try-catch blocks are used for exception handling, while if statements are for conditional checks. Try-catch can handle unexpected errors, whereas if statements are for known conditions.

Can you give me an example of when to use try-catch instead of if?

Sure! Use try-catch when dealing with operations that can throw exceptions, like file I/O. If the file isn't found, an exception is thrown, which can be caught in a try-catch block.

What about performance? Is one method faster than the other?

Generally, if statements are faster since they don't involve the overhead of exception handling. However, try-catch is more robust for handling unexpected errors.

Are there any best practices for using try-catch in C++?

Yes, it's best to catch specific exceptions rather than using a catch-all. Also, avoid using try-catch for regular control flow; reserve it for truly exceptional cases.