How to Assign Derived Classes in C++

How to Assign Derived Classes in C++

C++ supports the use of inheritance, allowing programmers to assign derived classes to their parent classes. This means that a derived class will have all the properties and methods of the parent class along with any additional ones assigned to it. This process is similar to assigning an object in C++, but there are some additional steps to consider when working with derived classes.

Step 1: Create a Parent Class

Before you can assign derived classes, you must first create a parent class. Typically, this will be done in a header file, and it may include variables, methods, and functions specific to the parent class. It is important to ensure that the parent class has at least one virtual method, as this is necessary for derived classes to later be assigned.

Step 2: Create a Derived Class

To create a derived class, you will need to add a new header file after the parent class. In this header file, you will need to include the parent class name so that the program knows what type of object the derived class is based on. Additionally, you will need to add any additional properties or methods for the derived class that are not already included in the parent class.

Step 3: Assign the Derived Class

Once both the parent and derived classes have been created, you can now assign the derived class to the parent class. To do this, you will need to create an object using the derived class’s name and then assign it to a pointer that references the parent class. The syntax for accomplishing this is “ParentClass* object_name = new DerivedClass();”.

Step 4: Utilize the Parent Class’s Virtual Functions

Now that your derived class is correctly assigned to the parent class, you can utilize any virtual functions defined in the parent class. These virtual functions allow you to customize the behavior of the derived class. To call these functions, you will use the same syntax as you would for any other function.

Following these steps will allow you to assign derived classes to their parent classes in C++. Knowing how to properly assign derived classes allows you to take advantage of the flexibility offered by object-oriented programming when working in C++.