What are the basics of using iterators with vectors in C++?

What are the basics of using iterators with vectors in C++?

In C++, iterators are used to traverse elements in a vector. They act like pointers.

Can you show me how to use a simple iterator with a vector?

Sure! Here's a basic example:

#include <iostream>
#include <vector>

int main() {
    std::vector<int> vec = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5};
    for (std::vector<int>::iterator it = vec.begin(); it != vec.end(); ++it) {
        std::cout << *it << ' ';
    }
    return 0;
}

What does vec.begin() and vec.end() do?

vec.begin() returns an iterator pointing to the first element, while vec.end() points to one past the last element.

Are there other types of iterators I should know about?

Yes! Besides regular iterators, there are reverse iterators, constant iterators, and more, each serving different purposes.