What are the differences between composite patterns and strategy patterns?

What are the differences between composite patterns and strategy patterns?

The composite pattern is used to treat individual objects and compositions uniformly, while the strategy pattern defines a family of algorithms and makes them interchangeable.

Can you give me an example of each pattern?

Sure! In the composite pattern, you might have a graphic design application where shapes can be individual or groups. In the strategy pattern, you could have a sorting application where different sorting algorithms can be applied interchangeably.

When should I use one pattern over the other?

Use the composite pattern when you need to work with tree structures and treat individual and composite objects uniformly. Use the strategy pattern when you want to define a family of algorithms and switch between them easily.

Are there any drawbacks to using these patterns?

Yes, the composite pattern can lead to a more complex structure, while the strategy pattern can increase the number of classes in your codebase.