C++ NotesPersonal learning library
Quick reference

Pass by reference

Let a function modify an existing required object.

Syntax

void increment(int& value)
{
	++value;
}

int count { 4 };
increment(count);
// count is now 5

The parameter refers directly to the caller’s object. Changes made through the reference affect that object.

When to use it

  • The function must modify the caller’s object
  • The object is required and cannot be null
  • Copying would be unnecessary