C++ STL Introduction

🧰 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;
}

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📦 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 and list!