Array Convert List, Array Extension List Nothing

`ToList`

Often in VB.NET programs we have arrays. But we want those arrays to be used as Lists. What is the easiest way to convert a collection into a List?

Method notes

In VB.NET, we have access to an Extension called ToList. We can call ToList directly upon an array. An array of any type of elements can be used.

Example

In VB.NET programs, we often can benefit from the features of Lists, such as dynamic resizing. This motivates us to convert from arrays to Lists.

Step 1 This program uses standard VB.NET syntax to create an array of 4 String literals.

Step 2 We invoke ToList. The resulting List has 4 elements and contains all the same elements as the originating array.

Step 3 We use the For-Each loop to iterate over the elements in the newly-created List and print each one to the Console.

Tip At this point, we can add elements to our List collection dynamically, as with Add. This could not be done with the array.

Module Module1
    Sub Main()
        ' Step 1: create array.
        Dim array() As String = {"A", "B", "C", "D"}

        ' Step 2: create List and print Count.
        Dim list As List(Of String) = array.ToList()
        Console.WriteLine(list.Count)

        ' Step 3: display each item.
        For Each item As String In list
            Console.WriteLine("  {0}", item)
        Next
    End Sub
End Module4
  A
  B
  C
  D

Discussion

When you call the ToList Extension, a few internal checks occur. The parameter (the instance ToList is called on) is checked for Nothing.

And Then, depending on the type of the argument, the List constructor is called.

Note This means that, when you know the type of the instance is an array, using the List constructor directly is more efficient.

Info This bypasses logic tests. ToList should only be used on types that cannot be passed to the List constructor.

' Create List.
Dim list As List(Of String) = array.ToList()
' Create List: same result.
Dim list As List(Of String) = New List(Of String)(array)

Summary

The List type is often preferred in programs for its dynamic resizing. It is easier to use than an array. A List results in some performance drawbacks.