Basics
.NET Switch
Switch Expressions
.NET switch expressions handle cases with type patterns.
Introduction to .NET Switch Expressions
The switch expression in .NET is a powerful feature that allows developers to perform pattern matching on values, making the code more concise and readable. Introduced with C# 8.0, switch expressions enhance the traditional switch statement by supporting pattern matching, including type patterns, property patterns, and positional patterns.
Basic Syntax of Switch Expressions
Switch expressions in C# have a concise syntax compared to traditional switch statements. They return a value and can be used inline within other expressions. Here’s the basic structure:
Using Type Patterns in Switch Expressions
Type patterns are used to match a value's type within a switch expression. This is particularly useful when you have objects of different types and you want to execute specific logic based on the type.
Combining Type and Property Patterns
You can combine type patterns with property patterns to match more complex scenarios. This allows you to not only check the type but also inspect the properties of the object.
Advantages of Using Switch Expressions
Switch expressions provide several advantages over traditional switch statements:
- Conciseness: They reduce boilerplate code by removing the need for break statements.
- Readability: The syntax is more straightforward, especially for complex pattern matching.
- Functional Style: They fit well with C#'s move towards more functional programming paradigms.