Thread: what's the best way to achieve this

Originally Posted by Bubba

Seems like you need to do a bit of reading on C++ before progressing.

Essentially. Here's a tip: if you are unfamiliar with the use of maps, structs, and iterators, do not try and incorporate them directly into the program you are writing before you first write short test/example programs so that you can get a feel for the syntax and concepts.

This also makes it easier to ask people questions, because rather than expecting them to follow a thread that is now 90 posts long in order to figure out where you are coming from/what you are doing, you can post a fresh thread with a short piece of code asking a specific question about syntax/usage.

Furthermore, it will save you time and headaches. Breaking things down appropriately is a very very significant aspect of successful programming. You may think it is a waste of effort to work on a short demo program about maps and iterators, but honestly: in the end, it will probably be a lot less wasted effort than making a mess in your main project doing the same thing. When I run across something new that I need/want to use for some specific purpose, I don't just read a couple of docs and then set out to include it in my latest magnum opus. First I sit down and play with it independently. Rather obviously, the second time you apply something is easier than the first -- and also, the result is more focussed and polished.