How do I post a question about code that doesn't work correctly?, C++ FAQ

C++ FAQ / Section 5 / FAQ 5.8

Section 5:

5.1	Acronyms used in newsgroups?
5.2	How do I get other people to do my homework problem for me?
5.3	What should I do if I see someone else posting a homework problem?
5.4	General netiquette?
5.5	What do I do if someone else posts a question that's already in the FAQ?
5.6	Really? Don't answer questions already in the FAQ?
5.7	What makes a good `Subject:` line?
5.8	How do I post a question about code that doesn't work correctly?
5.9	Which newsgroup should I post my questions?
5.10	Should I post job advertisements and/or resumés on `comp.lang.c++`?
5.11	What if I really need a job; should I post my resumé on `comp.lang.c++`?
5.12	What should I do to someone who posts something off-topic?
5.13	What about spam?
5.14	How do I get the FAQs for a particular newsgroup?

[5.8] How do I post a question about code that doesn't work correctly?

Key guidelines:

Post compile'able code: avoid ellipses, such as void f() { ... }
Post complete code: put in all necessary #includes and declarations of needed types and functions
Post minimal code: just enough to demonstrate the problem; skip I/O and calls to libraries if possible
Post one compilation unit: if possible, combine Foo.h into Foo.cpp
Post the tools you used: compiler name, version number, operating system, etc
Post the tool options you used: libraries, exact compiler and linker options, etc
Post the exact messages you received; differentiate between compiler, linker, and runtime messages
Make sure main() has a return type of int, not void!

As always, make sure your question isn't already in the FAQ. Use the subject index to check.