What's the point of static members in a class?

Question

Im a former C++ programmer looking in C# a bit, I'd just like to know, my 2 books (C++ - C#) are very different and explain both concepts Very differently. I just want to make sure Im on the right page. So static members are basically members (ex. static int numOfWheels = 4) that can be only accessed within the class itself, am I correct? Is there anythin else to them? Please try to explain as clearly as possible, thanks for your time :)

Sam Hobbs · Answer

A static member always exists even before any instances are instantiated and there will always be one and only one instance of a static member regardless of how many objects have been created.

Adam Soap · Answer

Sorry I meant instantiate I'm still not quite comprending this is it useful? Like when will I need it?

Sam Hobbs · Answer

No the opposite is closer to reality. Typically it is said that a static member can only be used outside the class but that is not true. Check your books again. In C++ the only real difference between a static method and non-static methods is that a static method is not called with a this. Please use your books for a more clear explanation. A critical concept that you need to undestand is the difference between a definition of a class and declarations using the class. Declarations using a class is often called instances of the class. When you understand that it will be much easier to understand static members.