Properties or Methods in C#: When Should You Use Which?

C# Properties vs. Methods: When to use which?

In C# development, programmers often face the problem of choosing attributes or methods. To make the right choice, it's crucial to understand the fundamental differences between the two.

Attribute represents the data stored in the internal fields of the object. They provide a concise and easy-to-use interface for reading and writing data values. Attributes are mainly used in the following situations:

• The data values ​​are simple and no complex operations are performed.
• Values ​​are modified rarely or in a predictable manner.
• Accessing or modifying a value has no side effects.

Methods represent actions or operations that an object can perform. They allow developers to encapsulate complex functionality and provide a structured way of performing tasks. The method applies to the following situations:

• Operations involve extensive calculations or data processing.
• Operations may have side effects, such as modifying the state of other objects or triggering events.
• Operations require access to complex data structures or external resources.

Example: Set label text

Consider the scenario of setting Label control text on an ASPX page. According to the guiding principles in the "Class Library Development and Design Guide":

• If setting text is a simple operation and has no side effects, it can be implemented as a property.
• However, if setting the text requires complex validation, triggers an event, or relies on external resources, it is better to implement it as a method.

In the example given, SetLabel(string text) appears to be a simple operation of setting the label's Text property. Therefore, for ease of use, it is appropriate to implement it as an attribute.

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