C++ In Action

Pointers

Using references, we can give multiple names to the same object. Using pointers, we can have the same name refer to different objects--a pointer is a mutable reference.

Pointers give us power to create complex data structures. They also increase our ability to shoot ourselves in the foot. Pointer is like a plug that can be plugged into a jack. If you have too many plugs and too many jacks, you may end up with a mess of tangled cables. A programmer has to strike a balance between creating a program that looks like a breadboard or like a printed circuit

Contents

1. Pointers
   • Pointers and References
   • Pointers and Arrays
   • Exercises
2. Pointers and Dynamic Memory Allocation
3. Dynamic Data Structures
   • Dynamic Stack
   • Linked List
   • String Table
   • Hash Table
4. Exercises