#272 – Differences Between ref and out Parameters

Ref and out parameters in C# are implemented in the same way, in the compiled code.  In both cases, a parameter is passed by reference, giving the method called a chance to change the underlying value.

ref and out parameters different purposes:

• ref parameters are for input/output – a value is passed into a method and a new value is passed out
• out parameters are for output – a value is passed out of a method

The compiler enforces the following rules:

• ref parameters
  • A value must be assigned to parameter before method is called
  • Parameter may be referenced inside method before being written to
  • Parameter may be written to before returning from method
• out parameters
  • A value may be assigned before method is called (but cannot be used inside method)
  • Parameter may not be referenced inside method before being written to
  • Parameter must be written to before returning from method