Use member function templates when you want to write a single function that can work with different types, but the types aren't known until compile-time.
Some examples of when member function templates are useful:
- A
print()function that can print various types of data members - Equality or comparison operators that work with multiple types
- A generic
sort()function for sorting different types in a class - Getters/setters that can work with different property types
If your member function always deals with the same types, a regular member function is simpler. But if you find yourself writing overloaded versions of a function for different types, consider using a member function template to reduce code duplication.
In general, reach for member function templates when you need flexibility in the types the function operates on, but regular member functions when the types are fixed.
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Member Function Templates
Learn how to create and use member function templates in classes and structs, including syntax, instantiation, and advanced techniques
