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 is fundamental for creating reusable and type-safe components like containers and algorithms in the C++ Standard Library.
Developers should learn C++ Templates to write efficient, reusable code that avoids duplication and supports multiple data types, such as in libraries like STL (Standard Template Library) for containers (e.g., vector, map) and algorithms. They are essential for performance-critical applications where compile-time polymorphism is preferred over runtime mechanisms, and for implementing design patterns like policy-based design or metaprogramming in modern C++.