What are the best practices for using STL vectors in C++?

What are the best practices for using STL vectors in C++?

Some best practices include using reserve() to avoid reallocations, and using emplace_back() for efficiency.

When should I use std::vector over other containers?

Use std::vector when you need dynamic array functionality, random access, and efficient memory usage.

Can you explain the difference between push_back and emplace_back?

push_back copies or moves an object into the vector, while emplace_back constructs the object in place, which can be more efficient.

What are some common pitfalls to avoid with vectors?

Common pitfalls include not reserving space, accessing out-of-bounds elements, and not considering the cost of copying large vectors.