Question 1

How do I install libassert with CMake?

Accepted Answer

Use FetchContent to declare the Git repository and tag, then link your target to libassert::assert. On Windows, you must copy the DLL post-build, as shown in the README's CMake example. Ensure debug symbols are enabled for full functionality.

Question 2

What's the difference between libassert and standard C++ assert?

Accepted Answer

Libassert provides automatic expression decomposition, stack traces, and rich diagnostics like syntax highlighting, while standard assert only shows the expression and location. However, libassert isn't a drop-in replacement and requires setup, unlike <cassert>.

Question 3

Does libassert work with GoogleTest or Catch2?

Accepted Answer

Yes, libassert includes headers for both: for GoogleTest and for Catch2. These enhance assertion output within tests, though MSVC needs /Zc:preprocessor for compatibility.

Question 4

How to customize assertion output in libassert?

Accepted Answer

Set custom failure handlers via set_failure_handler, adjust color schemes with set_color_scheme, and enable features like diff highlighting with set_diff_highlighting. The README provides examples for tailoring output to your needs.

Question 5

Is libassert good for release builds or just debugging?

Accepted Answer

ASSERT macros are checked in both debug and release builds, while DEBUG_ASSERT is debug-only. Performance impact is minimal in the success path, but failure paths are slower—acceptable for rare assertions in production.

Question 6

Can I use libassert without CMake?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can install it system-wide or via package managers like Conan or Vcpkg, then compile with -lassert and include paths. The README details steps for various compilers and platforms, though it's more complex than CMake.

Question 7

libassert vs other assertion libraries like Boost.Assert?

Accepted Answer

Libassert excels in automatic expression decomposition and rich diagnostics like stack traces and highlighting, whereas Boost.Assert offers more traditional macros. Choose libassert for detailed debugging info, but it has higher setup complexity.

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