---
title: Structs
description: Data modeling using Mist's type-first convention.
icon: Form
---

Structs in Mist follow the same structural logic as Rust, but apply the language-wide `type name` declaration style and allow for comma-separated field grouping.

## Basic Syntax

A struct is defined by its name followed by a block of fields. Each field follows the Mist convention of placing the type before the identifier, separated by commas.

```rust
public struct Task {
    public String name,
    public TaskState state,
    public i32 executions,
}
```

## Visibility

Use the `public` modifier to make the struct or its individual fields accessible from other modules.

```cpp
public struct NetworkNode {
    public u32 id,
    str* address,
}
```

## Instantiation

Structs are instantiated using the standard brace syntax.

```cpp
var task = Task {
    name: "Initialize".to_string(),
    state: TaskState::Pending,
    executions: 0,
};
```

## Generics & Lifetimes

Generics and lifetimes are declared in angle brackets after the struct name. Lifetimes are associated with the reference/pointer type within the field declarations.

```cpp
public struct Buffer<'a, T> {
    public T'a* data,
    public usize len,
}
```

## Key Characteristics

- **Type-First Declaration**: Fields use the `type name` order to match function parameters and variable declarations.
- **Comma-Separated Members**: Fields are separated by commas, maintaining a clean and consistent delimiter style.
- **Rust Compatibility**: Maps 1:1 to Rust structs, ensuring zero-cost abstraction and full ecosystem interoperability.
- **Direct Visibility**: The `public` keyword replaces `pub` for a more consistent modifier language across the codebase.