Modern programming languages come with many features, data structures, and algorithms out of the box. C++ is no exception. The Standard Template Library (STL) provides interfaces to a preexisting library of functionality that will allow you to write better programs faster.

The STL provides you with tools to manage collections of objects, execute algorithms on those collections, and learn how to best structure the data in your applications.

This part of the book will help you learn the differences between the different STL containers and when to use each in your programs. You’ll also see the string class in action, which will help you work with strings in a much easier manner than using raw C strings.

The STL also provides excellent exposure to the syntax required to use templates in your programs. This will be very useful in the next part of the book when you learn how to create your own templates.