Correct use of C# properties

Question

private List _dates;

public List Dates
{
    get { return _dates; }
    set { _dates = value; }
}

OR

publi         


        

Answer 1

I personally prefer the first method as it allows you to perform a few operations prior to the return.

E.G. (A really poor example)

    private int _limit;
    private int _onHand;
    private bool returnToVendor;

    public Item(int limit, int onHand)
    {
       _limit = limit;
       _onHand = onHand;
    }

    public int ReturnStock
    {
       get
       {
         if(_onHand > _limit)
         {
            returnToVendor = true;
            return _onHand;
         }
       }

       set
       {
           _onHand = value;

           if(_onHand < _limit)
           {
              returnToVendor = false;
           }
       }
    }