Should I store entire objects, or pointers to objects in containers?

Question

Designing a new system from scratch. I\'ll be using the STL to store lists and maps of certain long-live objects.

Question: Should I ensure my objects have copy co

Answer 1

Generally storing the objects directly in the STL container is best as it is simplest, most efficient, and is easiest for using the object.

If your object itself has non-copyable syntax or is an abstract base type you will need to store pointers (easiest is to use shared_ptr)