Basic Pointers

The basics of pointers. I did NOT make this video. I am simply uploading it to YouTube so I can link it directly as part of my tutorial. Proper credits are in the credits.

Pointers are mainly used with functions. Since variables within a function are terminated when that function returns, you use a pointer to directly manipulate the address of that variable so that any changes made to the variable in that function are carried over when the function returns.

Example:
int myFunction(int *pMyPointer);

When that function is called, you pass the address of your argument(s) instead, like so:

myFunction(&myVariable);

Any changes to that variable will carry over, but you must dereference the pointer in order to make a change to the value stored there, like so:

*pMyVariable = value;

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• C++
• Plus
• Programming
• Programmer
• Program
• Basic
• Pointers
• Dynamic
• Memory
• Management
• Compiler

[sxfreak]

very funny, but pointers are also initialized with values like all variables, so it's not pointing to nothing...

[Spunky48]

Initialization is optional, you can choose not to initialize a pointer but it's dangerous. Uninitialized pointers are called "wild pointers".

[EvolutionXEngine]

im so dumb that you going to have to use fingers and swearing...i hate pointers ... fu*%en 'asterisk '

[burekus]

Great man....I understand them now!

Thanks.

[freeadplanet]

Treat me like a CHILD and we will NEVER get real. ahha

[jwillisgod]

This is destined to be a classic...

[VietPho]

ahahhaha

[louisgjordan2]

SSpoke: Great examples. thank you

[UnresolvedExternal]

When dynamically allocating memory, don't forget to delete kids! :P

[Spunky48]

Good call. Done. :)

[cptBraver]

thanks for explaining it,

nicely explained :)

[cptBraver]

u might want to put this in ur description