C++ Templates
C++ templates are a powerful feature of the C++ programming language that enable generic programming by allowing functions and classes to operate with generic types. They provide a way to write code that works with any data type without sacrificing performance, as the compiler generates type-specific versions at compile-time. This mechanism supports both function templates for generic functions and class templates for generic data structures.
Developers should learn C++ templates to write reusable, type-safe, and efficient code, particularly in performance-critical applications like game engines, high-frequency trading systems, and scientific computing. They are essential for implementing standard library containers (e.g., std::vector) and algorithms, reducing code duplication and enabling compile-time polymorphism through techniques like template metaprogramming.