When should I use mixins instead of inheritance?

When should I use mixins instead of inheritance?

Mixins are great for adding functionality to classes without creating a complex hierarchy. Use them when you need to share behavior across multiple classes.

Can you give me an example of a mixin?

Sure! A mixin could be a logging functionality that you want to add to several classes. Instead of inheriting from a base class, you create a Logger mixin that can be included in any class.

What are the advantages of using mixins?

Mixins promote code reuse and help avoid the issues of deep inheritance trees. They allow for more flexible and modular code.

Are there any downsides to using mixins?

Yes, mixins can lead to confusion if overused, as it may become unclear where certain methods are coming from. It's important to use them judiciously.

How do I decide between using a mixin or inheritance?

Consider using mixins when you need to share behavior across unrelated classes, and use inheritance when you have a clear parent-child relationship.