How do I iterate safely under modification with std::set in performance-sensitive code?

Iterating safely over a std::set in C++ when modifications may occur can be challenging. A common approach involves using iterators while being cautious about the modifications. In performance-sensitive code, it's critical to minimize overhead while ensuring that the iteration process is stable. One effective method is to gather the modifications in a temporary container, allowing the iteration to complete without interference.

Here’s a brief example illustrating how to safely iterate over a std::set while modifying it:

#include #include #include int main() { std::set mySet = {1, 2, 3, 4, 5}; std::vector toRemove; // Vector to hold elements to remove // Initial iteration to collect elements to remove for (auto it = mySet.begin(); it != mySet.end(); ) { if (*it % 2 == 0) { // Condition for removal toRemove.push_back(*it); // Collect element for later removal it++; // Advance the iterator } else { it++; // Advance the iterator } } // Now, perform the actual removal outside the iteration for (int num : toRemove) { mySet.erase(num); } // Display the modified set for (const auto &num : mySet) { std::cout << num << " "; } return 0; }

C++ std::set iterator modification performance-sensitive safe iteration