What is template specialization in C++?

What is template specialization in C++?

Template specialization allows you to define a specific implementation of a template for a particular type.

Can you give me an example of template specialization?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

template <typename T>
class MyClass {
public:
    void display() {
        std::cout << "Generic version" << std::endl;
    }
};

// Specialization for int
template <>
class MyClass<int> {
public:
    void display() {
        std::cout << "Specialized version for int" << std::endl;
    }
};

In this example, MyClass<int> has a specialized implementation.

What are the benefits of using template specialization?

Template specialization can improve performance by allowing optimized code for specific types and can also enhance code readability.

Are there any downsides to using template specialization?

Yes, it can lead to code bloat if overused, and it may complicate the codebase, making it harder to maintain.