Regarding @synthesize in iOS6+

Question

Eg:

//Myclass.h
@property(nonatomic, strong) NSString *name;

//MyClass.m
//@synthesize name = _name

So I know that we don't need to use @synthesize any more from iOS6+. The compiler automatically creates getters and setters for me.

1. But I don't understand is when to use self.name = @"Testing" and when to use _name = @"Testing" ?

2. Should _name = @"Testing" be ever used?

3. If yes, when? When should an iVAR be used at all?

4. Also if i want to write my own getter and setter do i need to write @synthesize or can i just write my getter and setter?

Thanks for your help!

Answer 1

Normally, you only use instance variables in init methods, getters and setters, and dealloc. There are exceptions of course, but this is a good rule of thumb.

If you write both your own getter and setter (or in the case of a readonly property and you write the getter), you have to synthesize your property yourself. In all other cases, the property is auto-synthesized.