So Simple: Basic Usage of C++ References (&)

In C++, a reference is an "alias" for a variable, sharing memory with the original variable. Modifying the reference directly modifies the original variable. Basic usage: References must be bound to an existing variable during definition (cannot be uninitialized or bound to temporary constants); as function parameters, they avoid value copying and allow direct modification of variables (e.g., in swap functions); when returning a reference, local variables must not be returned (as the variable is destroyed after the function ends, causing undefined behavior). const references (constant references) can bind to temporary variables (e.g., `const int &c = 5`) and prevent modification of the original variable through the reference. Notes: References must be initialized; local variable references must not be returned; only const references can bind to temporary variables. Differences between references and pointers: References must be initialized and are immutable, while pointers can be null and can change their target; references do not require dereferencing, making them more concise and secure for parameters/return values; pointers are flexible, suitable for dynamic memory management. Key takeaway: A reference is a variable alias, efficient and safe, with attention to initialization and return rules.