Generics

Generics are a programming concept used in various programming languages to enhance code reusability and ensure type safety in parameterized data structures and functions. The primary goal of generics is to write code that can work with different data types without requiring specialized code for each data type. This increases abstraction and flexibility in programming.

Here are some key features of generics:

1. Parameterization: Generics allow you to define a class, function, or data structure to work with one or more data types without the need to write a separate implementation for each data type.

2. Type Safety: Generics ensure that types are checked during compilation, helping to prevent runtime errors by ensuring that only compatible data types are used.

3. Reusability: Generics enable you to write generic code that works with different data types, facilitating code reuse and maintenance.

4. Performance: Generics can help improve code efficiency as they can be optimized when generating machine-readable code.

Generics are available in various programming languages. Examples include:

• In Java, you can use generics to create parameterized classes and methods. For example, you can create a generic list that can work with various data types: List<T>, where T represents the generic type.

• In C#, generics can be used to parameterize classes, methods, and delegates. For example: List<T>.

• In C++, templates are a similar concept that allows you to write generic code that is specialized at compile time.

• In TypeScript, a language developed by Microsoft, you can use generics to perform flexible and type-safe checks in JavaScript applications.

Generics are a powerful tool for writing flexible and reusable code that can be used in various contexts, contributing to improved type safety and efficiency.