How can I prevent memory leaks in C++?

How can I prevent memory leaks in C++?

To prevent memory leaks in C++, always ensure that every new has a corresponding delete. Use smart pointers like std::unique_ptr or std::shared_ptr to manage memory automatically.

What are smart pointers and how do they help?

Smart pointers are objects that manage the lifetime of dynamically allocated memory. They automatically deallocate memory when it's no longer needed, reducing the risk of memory leaks.

Can you give an example of using a smart pointer?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

#include <memory>

void example() {
    std::unique_ptr<int> ptr = std::make_unique<int>(10);
    // No need to delete ptr, it will be automatically deleted when it goes out of scope.
}

What tools can I use to detect memory leaks in my C++ code?

You can use tools like Valgrind, AddressSanitizer, or Visual Studio's built-in memory diagnostics to detect memory leaks.