When should I use generics in programming?

When should I use generics in programming?

Generics are useful when you want to create reusable components that can work with any data type. They help in maintaining type safety.

Can you give me an example of generics in action?

Sure! In Java, you might use a generic class like List<T>, where T can be any type, allowing you to create a list of integers, strings, etc.

What are the benefits of using generics?

The main benefits include code reusability, type safety, and reducing the need for type casting, which can lead to fewer runtime errors.

Are there any downsides to using generics?

Yes, generics can add complexity to your code and may lead to performance issues in some cases, especially with type erasure in Java.