Trailing Return Types in C 11: Should They Be the New Standard?

Traversing the Dilemma: Exploring the Trailing Return Type Syntax in C 11

C 11 introduced a novel syntax for functions, allowing developers to specify the return type after the parameter list:

auto func_name(int x, int y) -> int;

This syntax departs from the traditional declaration:

int func_name(int x, int y);

While the adoption of this new style remains limited, it prompts the question: should it become the default for new C 11 programs?

Necessity and Advantages of Trailing Return Types

In certain scenarios, trailing return types become mandatory. This includes lambda functions and decltype instances where argument names are essential.

Additionally, trailing return types offer benefits:

• Scope avoidance: For member functions using non-inline definitions, the trailing syntax eliminates the need to repeat the class qualification twice.
• Symmetric function alignment: When applied consistently, trailing return types align function names neatly, improving readability.

Mixed Style Considerations

A codebase with a mixture of traditional and trailing return types presents aesthetic concerns. However, it's worth noting that trailing return types are not universally applicable:

• Visibility and Discoverability: Traditional return types ensure that the return type is immediately visible in headers, aiding discovery.
• Compatibility Concerns: Not all tools and libraries fully support trailing return types, potentially introducing compatibility issues.

Conclusion

The decision whether to adopt trailing return types as the default hinges on a balance of factors. While they provide advantages in legibility and convenience, they may not be universally suitable or fully supported. For codebases requiring consistent function alignment or where member typedefs are prominent, trailing return types offer advantages. However, in situations where visibility, discoverability, or compatibility is critical, the traditional syntax may remain preferable.

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