How to Efficiently Convert an Array of Strings to a Vector in C++?

What is the best way to convert an array of strings to a vector in C++?

std::vector<std::string> vec(arr, arr + n); // n is the size of the array.

In C++, converting an array of strings to a vector is a common task that can enhance the flexibility and functionality of your string data. Vectors provide dynamic size management and come with a variety of built-in functions that arrays lack. Below is a detailed explanation of the different methods to perform this conversion.

#include <iostream>
#include <vector>
#include <string>
#include <algorithm>

int main() {
    const char* arr[] = {"One", "Two", "Three"};
    int n = sizeof(arr) / sizeof(arr[0]);
    std::vector<std::string> vec(arr, arr + n);
    
    for(const auto& str : vec) {
        std::cout << str << std::endl; // Outputs the strings in vector
    }
    return 0;
}

Causes

• Lack of knowledge about C++ standard library containers.
• Understanding of array vs vector limitations.

Solutions

• Use a constructor of std::vector that accepts pointers for a range.
• Utilize the std::copy algorithm from the <algorithm> header.
• Implement a loop to push each string from the array to the vector.

Mistake: Not adjusting the size of the vector according to the array size.

Solution: Always calculate the size of the array before passing it to the vector constructor.

Mistake: Accessing elements beyond the vector's size after conversion.

Solution: Always use appropriate boundary checks when accessing vector elements.