Gain insights into the C++ keyword 'const,' its usage in various contexts, and implications when returning pointers and references. Learn about preventing accidental data changes.

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In this course, you will learn about the C++ keyword const and its behaviour under different usage conditions, including local, global and static contexts. This course will help you to understand const and its implications when you attempt to return pointers and references in C++. By the end of the course, you will have a solid grip on const and its usage in preventing any accidental change of data.

Secure Coding Practices in C++: A Deep Dive into const

Which of the following are valid operations on p given `const` `std::unique_ptr<int> p = std::make_unique<int>(42)`? Select all that apply.

Which of the following are valid operations on p given <code>const</code> <code>std::unique_ptr&lt;int&gt; p = std::make_unique&lt;int&gt;(42)</code>? Select all that apply.

Which of the following is a valid operations on `p` given `std::unique_ptr<const int> p = std::make_unique<const int>(42)`?

Which of the following is a valid operations on <code>p</code> given <code>std::unique_ptr&lt;const int&gt; p = std::make_unique&lt;const int&gt;(42)</code>?

The compiler compiles the code without any extra conversion.

The code compiles with an extra conversion that will be optimized away by the compiler.

The compiler will compile without optimization.

What happens if you don’t match `const` on the pointed type such as: `std::unique_ptr<const int> p = std::make_unique<int>(42)`?

What happens if you don’t match <code>const</code> on the pointed type such as: <code>std::unique_ptr&lt;const int&gt; p = std::make_unique&lt;int&gt;(42)</code>?

It ensures that resources are not leaking by proper lifetime management.


What is the main purpose of smart pointers in C++?

What is the main purpose of smart pointers in C++?

When you pass a smart pointer by (`const`) reference, do you pass/share the ownership of the pointer?

When you pass a smart pointer by (<code>const</code>) reference, do you pass/share the ownership of the pointer?

By the time it is dereferenced, it might have been destroyed.

Smart pointers by(`const`) cannot be destroyed.

It can’t be destroyed without dereferencing.

Which of the following is a risk when passing a smart pointer by (`const`) reference?


Which of the following is a risk when passing a smart pointer by (<code>const</code>) reference?

Here's a short quiz to test our understanding.

Introduction

Arguments using const

Local Variables

Local Members

Functions

Return Types

const Parameters

const and Smart Pointers

Rvalue References

Summary

Quiz