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C++ Pointers and References
course content

Course Content

C++ Pointers and References

C++ Pointers and References

1. Pointers Fundamentals
Introduction and OverviewIntroduction to PointerAssigning Addresses to PointersLink Between Pointer and VariablePointers Use Cases
2. Pointer Arithmetic
Introduction to Pointer ArithmeticPointer Arithmetic PracticeArrays and Pointers ConnectionArray Pointer Arithmetic Practice
3. References Fundamentals
Introduction to ReferencesReference Use CasesRvalue and Lvalue ReferencesReference vs Pointers
4. Dynamic Memory Allocation
Introduction to MemoryDynamic AllocationDynamic Allocation of the ArrayPointer to Pointer Dynamic AllocationSummary and Overview

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Reference Use Cases

References provide a powerful mechanism for working with functions. Similar to pointers they enable a direct connection between the caller and the called function, allowing for efficient parameter passing and modification of variables.

Pass-by-reference

This involves passing the actual reference to the variable rather than its value. This allows functions to directly manipulate the original variables.

cpp

main

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#include <iostream>

void increment(int* num) { (*num)++; }

int main() 
{
	int num = 5;
    int* p_num = &num;	

    increment(p_num);
    
    std::cout << "Original value: " << num << std::endl;
}

Everything functions properly, but failing to assign an address to the pointer or passing a nullptr to the function could result in errors.

cpp

main

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12345678910

            
#include <iostream>

void increment(int& num) { num++; }

int main() 
{
	int num = 5;
    increment(num);
    std::cout << "Original value: " << num << std::endl;
}

Reference Variable as Alias

A reference is like a nickname for a variable. It lets you access the variable using a simpler name, making your code easier to understand, while also avoiding unnecessary memory overhead.

cpp

main

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#include <iostream>

int main()
{
    float temperature_outside = 67.2;
    const float& thermostat = temperature_outside;
  
	temperature_outside += 15.7;

    std::cout << thermostat << std::endl;
    std::cout << temperature_outside << std::endl;
}

Any modifications made to the temperature_outside variable will be reflected in the thermostat reference. However, attempts to alter the value through the thermostat reference itself are restricted due to the use of the const qualifier.

This approach provides a secure method for retrieving temperature readings using the thermostat reference while retaining the ability to update the temperature_outside variable.

What is the purpose of a reference in C++?

What is the purpose of a reference in C++?

Select a few correct answers

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Section 3. Chapter 2
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