`var s []int` vs. `s := make([]int, 0)`: When Should I Use Which for Go Slices?

Using "var s []int" or "s := make([]int, 0)"

When coding in Go, developers often encounter the question of whether to use "var s []int" or "s := make([]int, 0)" to declare or create a slice. Both approaches are valid, but they differ in their behavior and memory implications.

"var s []int" simply declares a slice of integers. However, it does not allocate any memory for the slice, leaving it pointing to nil. This means that the slice is effectively empty and cannot hold any values.

On the other hand, "s := make([]int, 0)" not only declares a slice but also allocates memory for it. It creates a slice with an initial length of 0, meaning it can hold no values initially. This differs from "var s []int" in that it ensures that memory is set aside for the slice to use.

Generally, if the exact size of the slice is unknown, the first approach ("var s []int") is more idiomatic. It allows the slice to grow or shrink dynamically as needed. However, if the size of the slice is predetermined, using "s := make([]int, 0)" is more efficient, as it allocates memory only for the required capacity.

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