Is cplusplus.com a Reliable C Reference: Unmasking Errors and Misconceptions?

cppreference.com: Unveiling Errors, Misconceptions, and Faulty Advice

Despite its popularity as a C reference, cplusplus.com has faced scrutiny regarding the accuracy of its information. To shed light on this issue, this article examines specific examples where cplusplus.com has provided incorrect information or misleading advice.

Misconception in std::remove

According to cplusplus.com, the std::remove function from the header "does not alter the elements past the new end, which keep their old values and are still accessible." However, this statement is inaccurate.

The reality is that std::remove does not remove any elements from the container. It merely shifts the valid elements towards the beginning of the container and returns an iterator pointing to the new logical end. Any elements beyond this new end are undefined.

Incorrect Information in list::remove

Similarly, cplusplus.com incorrectly describes list::remove as having "similar behavior" to the global std::remove function. However, this claim is false.

Unlike std::remove, which does not alter the container, list::remove permanently removes the specified elements from the list.

Risks of Relying on cplusplus.com

Incorrect information can mislead developers, leading to bugs and incorrect code. Using cplusplus.com as a primary reference can pose risks in situations where accuracy is crucial, such as when quoting the standard in Stack Overflow answers.

Conclusion

While cplusplus.com can provide quick access to information, it is essential to be aware of its limitations and potential errors. Developers should cross-reference with reputable sources, such as the ISO C standard or established C documentation sites, to ensure the accuracy of their coding decisions.

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