What are the differences between template patterns and strategy patterns?

What are the differences between template patterns and strategy patterns?

Template patterns define the skeleton of an algorithm in a method, allowing subclasses to redefine certain steps. Strategy patterns, on the other hand, define a family of algorithms, encapsulate each one, and make them interchangeable.

Can you give me an example of each?

Sure! In a template pattern, you might have a class that outlines a process for making a drink, with subclasses for coffee and tea that implement specific steps. In a strategy pattern, you could have different sorting algorithms (like quicksort and mergesort) that can be swapped out depending on the context.

When should I use one over the other?

Use template patterns when you want to define a common structure for a set of related classes, and strategy patterns when you need to switch between different algorithms or behaviors at runtime.

Are there any drawbacks to using these patterns?

Yes, template patterns can lead to a rigid structure if not designed carefully, while strategy patterns can introduce complexity if too many strategies are created.