---
title: 1.11 Type Aliases (using)
description: "The `using` keyword can also be used to create a type alias. It provides the same functionality as `typedef` but offers a more consistent syntax and is especially useful when working with templates. This example demonstrates how to define and…"
url: "https://edcret.in/docs/cpp-programming/basic-refreshers-cplusplus/1-11-type-aliases-using/"
updated: "2026-07-28"
category: C++ Programming / Basic Refreshers
---

# 1.11 Type Aliases (using)

The `using` keyword can also be used to create a type alias. It provides the same functionality as `typedef` but offers a more consistent syntax and is especially useful when working with templates.

This example demonstrates how to define and use a type alias with `using`.

## Source Code

```
#include <iostream>

using uint = unsigned int;

int main()
{
    uint student_count = 120;

    std::cout << "Student Count: " << student_count << '\n';

    return 0;
}
```

## Output

```
Student Count: 120
```

## Explanation

- `using uint = unsigned int;` creates the alias `uint` for the existing type `unsigned int`.
- The `using` keyword does not define a new data type. It only introduces another name for an existing type.
- `uint student_count = 120;` is equivalent to writing `unsigned int student_count = 120;`.
- Compared to `typedef`, the `using` syntax is easier to read because the alias name appears on the left side of the assignment.
- `using` is the preferred approach for creating type aliases in modern C++ and also supports template aliases.
- `std::cout << "Student Count: " << student_count << '\n';` prints the value stored in the variable.
- `return 0;` terminates the program successfully.