Go 1.18 introduced generics to enable writing flexible and reusable code with type safety.
Generics in Go allow writing functions, types, and methods that work with multiple types without compromising type safety.
Key benefits of using generics include code reuse, type safety, and cleaner code without repetitive code or risky type casting.
Generics use type parameters defined in square brackets after a function or type name, with constraints limiting the allowed types.
Examples show the use of generics in functions for finding the maximum of values, filtering elements, and creating reusable data structures like stacks.
Constraints like 'any,' 'comparable,' or custom interfaces help control which types a generic function or type can use.
Type inference in Go simplifies generics by inferring types from arguments, reducing the need for explicit type declarations in many cases.
Common pitfalls to avoid with generics include overusing them, using incorrect constraints, handling nil and zero values, and considering performance implications.
A real-world example demonstrates a generic Map function that transforms a slice of one type into another, showcasing the versatility and reusability of generics in Go.
Generics in Go offer a powerful way to write cleaner, more reusable code, solving real problems efficiently.