Lists

In this section, we will take a look at lists that are fairly similar to arrays conceptually but different syntax wise.

Similarities

Just like arrays, a list stores one type of data in an ordered matter. Just like arrays, lists have indicies which start at 0. Getting elements at a certain index is also the same in the list.

myList[0] // 0 is the INDEX and will return the FIRST element in the list

Did you know? -> Lists are made by using arrays just with added functionality.

Unfortunately, coding lists are pretty different than arrays. Also, conceptually, there are key differences

Differences

One main difference when using lists is that the size of the list can change. (Not really but, for now, think about it like that) Consequently, you cannot initialize a list with a size. C# does that for you. You can also remove elements from a list much easier than in an array. Instead of going step by step, I will show you some code that is common practice when dealing with lists. Pay attention to the differences in syntax. The code will be commented. I encourage you to play around with the code yourself.

Code Example

List<int> list = new List<int>() // initialize List with elements
{
    1,
    2,
    3,
    4,
    4,
    5,
};

list.Remove(4); // removing the first occurence of 4 from the list

foreach (var item in list)
{
    Console.WriteLine(item);
}
Console.WriteLine("------------------");

list.Add(13); // Adding this element at the END of the list

for(int i = 0; i < list.Count;i++)
{
    Console.WriteLine(list[i]);
}
Console.WriteLine("------------------");