Most important things about C++ templates… lesson learned

Question

What are most important things you know about templates: hidden features, common mistakes, best and most useful practices, tips...common mistakes/oversight/assumptions

Answer 1

Read Meyers's Effective STL and C++ books, and Alexandrescu's Modern C++ Design.

Meyers will give you the basics on easy mistakes to make and how to avoid them. Alexandrescu introduces you to a template-based programming model that should have you asking "Is this really a good idea?" the entire book.