Designing and Developing APIs in C++

In the world of software development, the design of application programming interfaces (APIs) is of paramount importance. Good APIs serve as the backbone of software libraries, facilitating interaction between different software components and enabling developers to leverage functionality efficiently and effectively. Well-designed APIs are intuitive, easy to use, and maintainable, playing a crucial role in the success and longevity of software projects. In this chapter, we will delve into principles and practices for designing maintainable APIs for libraries developed in C++. We will explore key aspects of API design, including clarity, consistency, and extensibility, and provide concrete examples to illustrate best practices. By understanding and applying these principles, you will be able to create APIs that not only meet the immediate needs of users but also remain robust and adaptable over time, ensuring that your libraries are both powerful...