How do C++ STL iterators compare to each other?

How do C++ STL iterators compare to each other?

C++ STL iterators can be categorized into several types: input, output, forward, bidirectional, and random access. Each type has different capabilities and use cases.

What are the main differences between random access and bidirectional iterators?

Random access iterators allow you to access elements in constant time using offsets, while bidirectional iterators only allow traversal in both directions but not random access.

Can you give examples of each type of iterator?

Sure! For example, std::vector provides random access iterators, std::list provides bidirectional iterators, and std::istream_iterator is an example of an input iterator.

When should I use each type of iterator?

Use random access iterators when you need fast access to elements, bidirectional for traversing collections in both directions, and input/output iterators for reading/writing data.