What are some alternatives to exceptions in C++?

What are some alternatives to exceptions in C++?

In C++, alternatives to exceptions include error codes, assertions, and using std::optional or std::variant for error handling.

Can you explain how to use error codes effectively?

Sure! Using error codes involves returning a specific value to indicate success or failure, allowing the caller to check the result.

What about using std::optional? How does that work?

std::optional can represent a value that may or may not be present. If a function fails, it can return an empty optional instead of throwing an exception.

Are there any downsides to using these alternatives?

Yes, using error codes can lead to more boilerplate code, and std::optional may introduce complexity in handling the absence of a value.