When should I use inheritance in C++?

When should I use inheritance in C++?

Inheritance is useful when you want to create a new class based on an existing class, allowing code reuse and polymorphism.

Can you give me an example of when inheritance is beneficial?

Sure! If you have a base class Animal and derived classes like Dog and Cat, you can define common behaviors in Animal and override them in the derived classes.

Are there any downsides to using inheritance?

Yes, overusing inheritance can lead to complex hierarchies and make code harder to maintain. Composition is often a better choice.

What is composition, and how does it differ from inheritance?

Composition involves building classes using other classes as components, promoting flexibility and reducing dependencies compared to inheritance.