Optimization of cache evictions through software hints

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing software "hints" for the purposes of cache management in an integrated circuit. Program instructions permit software management of a processor cache. The program instructions may permit a software designer to provide software deallocation hints identifying data that is not likely to be used during further program execution. The program instructions may permit a processor to evict the identified data from a cache ahead of other eviction candidates that are likely to be used during further program execution. Thus, these software hints provide for better use of cache memory.