What are the best practices for using collections in C#?

What are the best practices for using collections in C#?

When using collections in C#, consider using the appropriate collection type for your needs, such as List, Dictionary, or HashSet.

Can you explain when to use a Dictionary over a List?

Use a Dictionary when you need to store key-value pairs and require fast lookups by key. A List is better for ordered collections.

What about performance? Are there any performance tips?

Yes, prefer using collections that match your access patterns. For example, use List for indexed access and HashSet for unique items.

Are there any common pitfalls to avoid?

Avoid using collections inappropriately, like using a List for frequent lookups. Also, be cautious with thread safety when using collections in multi-threaded environments.