C++ STL Introduction – Superpower Tools for C++ Coders
The Standard Template Library (STL) is like a toolbox in C++ — packed with ready-to-use containers (like lists and maps), algorithms (like sorting), and iterators (for moving through data).
Instead of writing your own code to store and manage data, STL gives you super-fast, built-in solutions that work like magic!
STL Components
- Containers: Hold your data (like
vector
,list
,map
) - Algorithms: Work on data (like
sort()
,find()
,count()
) - Iterators: Smart pointers to walk through containers
Example: Using a Vector
#include <iostream>
#include <vector>
using namespace std;
int main() {
vector<int> nums = {10, 20, 30};
nums.push_back(40); // Add another item
for (int n : nums) {
cout << n << " ";
}
return 0;
}
#include <iostream>
#include <vector>
using namespace std;
int main() {
vector<int> nums = {10, 20, 30};
nums.push_back(40); // Add another item
for (int n : nums) {
cout << n << " ";
}
return 0;
}
#include <iostream> #include <vector> using namespace std; int main() { vector<int> nums = {10, 20, 30}; nums.push_back(40); // Add another item for (int n : nums) { cout << n << " "; } return 0; }
Why Use STL?
Saves time – no need to build everything yourself
Well-tested and efficient
Easy to reuse and flexible for many tasks
Fun Fact
The STL is part of the C++ Standard Library, which means it’s already available — no extra setup required. Just include the headers!
Summary
- STL is a powerful library of containers, algorithms, and iterators.
- It makes your code faster, shorter, and smarter.
- Next up: Let’s start using STL containers like
vector
andlist
!