Template Specialization

Full Specialization

Override behavior for a specific type when semantics or performance differ.

template<typename T>
T get_max(T a, T b) { return (a > b) ? a : b; }

template<>
std::string get_max<std::string>(std::string a, std::string b) {
  return (a.size() > b.size()) ? a : b;
}

Guidance

• Specialize for clear semantic differences.

• Specialize for performance when a type admits a faster path.

• Keep generic correctness first; specialize narrowly.