What are the differences between structs and classes in programming?

What are the differences between structs and classes in programming?

Structs and classes are both used to create complex data types, but they have some key differences. Structs are value types, while classes are reference types. This means that structs are copied when passed around, whereas classes are referenced.

Can you explain what value types and reference types mean?

Sure! Value types hold their data directly, while reference types store a reference to the data's memory address. This affects how they behave when assigned to new variables or passed to functions.

Are there any other differences besides value and reference types?

Yes, there are! For example, structs cannot have a default constructor, while classes can. Additionally, structs are generally used for small data structures, while classes are better for larger, more complex objects.

When should I use a struct instead of a class?

You should use a struct when you need a lightweight object that represents a single value or a small group of related values, especially if you want to ensure that the data is copied rather than referenced.