Classes and Objects in C++

Introduction to Classes and Objects

Object-oriented programming (OOP) is a programming paradigm that revolves around the concept of “objects,” which can be instances of classes. A class is a blueprint for creating objects, encapsulating data and the methods that operate on the data.

Defining Classes

Let’s create a simple class called Car:

#include
#include

class Car {
public:
    // Data members (attributes)
    std::string brand;
    std::string model;
    int year;

    // Member function (method)
    void displayInfo() {
        std::cout << "Brand: " << brand << ", Model: " << model << ", Year: " << year << std::endl;
    }
};

In this example, Car has data members (brand, model, and year) and a member function (displayInfo) to display information about a car.

Creating Objects

Now, let’s create objects of the Car class:

int main() {
    // Create objects of the Car class
    Car myCar;
    Car anotherCar;

    // Set attributes for the first car
    myCar.brand = "Toyota";
    myCar.model = "Camry";
    myCar.year = 2022;

    // Set attributes for the second car
    anotherCar.brand = "Honda";
    anotherCar.model = "Civic";
    anotherCar.year = 2021;

    // Call member functions to display information
    std::cout << "Information about my car:" << std::endl;
    myCar.displayInfo();

    std::cout << "Information about another car:" << std::endl;
    anotherCar.displayInfo();

    return 0;
}

In this example, we create two objects (myCar and anotherCar) of the Car class, set their attributes, and call the displayInfo method to display information about each car.

Exercise: Create and Use Classes

Now, let’s practice creating and using classes in C++.

Conclusion

Feel free to modify the Car class or create additional classes with different attributes and methods. This exercise will provide hands-on experience with classes and objects in C++.

Understanding classes and objects in C++ is fundamental to mastering object-oriented programming, enabling you to structure your code in a modular and organized manner. Happy coding!