What are records in C#?
C# records are a new feature introduced in C# 9 that provide a concise and immutable way to define classes. They offer a simplified syntax for defining classes primarily used for data storage. This makes working with complex data structures easier and can reduce the amount of boilerplate code required when defining such classes. C# records are ideal for representing data that should be treated as immutable, meaning their values cannot be changed once they are created.
One of the most notable features of C# records is that they are immutable by default. This means they are created with a constructor that sets all their properties, and their values cannot be changed after creation. This helps to ensure that instances of the class are always in a consistent state and makes it easier to reason about the data they represent. Immutability also helps to prevent unexpected bugs and makes it easier to work with data in a multi-threaded environment.
C# records also provide built-in functionality for equality, hashing, and string formatting. This makes it easy to compare instances of the class and display them in a readable format. Records can also provide a range of additional features, such as inheritance and copy constructors, which can make them a powerful tool for building complex applications.
In summary, C# records offer a simplified and immutable way to define classes primarily used for data storage. They provide a concise syntax, built-in functionality for equality and string formatting, and are ideal for representing data that should be treated as immutable. With the addition of inheritance and other features, C# records are a powerful tool for building complex applications that require robust and efficient data management.
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A cool video about C# records by Nick Chapsas:
