Learning C++

[Warthog]

I would like to start learning (if possible) the C++ programming language. I need help BIG TIME. I have no idea what I need or anything. I have no programming experience whatsoever. I need a basic overview of what I need to get started (books, software, etc.). I don't know where to start. I did find one book and wanted to know what you guys thought of it. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1861001967/qid=949275143/sr=1-1/103-4154993-9182224
If you have any other beginners books to recommend, that'd be great.

Thanks in advance.

Warthog

[RobRich]

I have some expereince in Visual C++, and it is the programming language of choice right now. If you defintely interested in doing C++, then these links should defintely interest you:

http://cplus.about.com

http://www.delorie.com/djgpp/

http://www.cs.virginia.edu/~lcc-win32/

Good Luck! http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif

[This message has been edited by RobRich (edited 01-30-2000).]

[BillyB]

This is the book that is used here at UofD and is considered the "Bible" to all CIS students here. I see that the reviews of this book claim that it is not for a beginner but I didn't find that to be true. The book starts out by explaining "good programming practice" in general, then goes into a C/C++ hybrid teaching method. Of course you must learn some C as well since C++ has "evolved" from that. Finally more advanced chapters concentrate primarily on OOP and C++ exclusively. It is a terrific reference manual as well. http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0135289106/ref=sim_books/104-7186918-2138022

[deep_sky]

C++ is a dificult language to learn as a first language, although it can be done. if you have the option or the time, try something easier like visual basic, then move on to C++ with some experience under your belt. that way you have good programming techniques and you can spend more time on learning the concepts of c++ rather than how to program well...just my advice as a CIS student to you....

[Warthog]

Thanks a lot guys! Been a great help!

Warthog

[Warthog]

deep_sky, I think I'll take your suggestion and try Visual Basic to get the hang of programming. The next question is should I purchase the Microsoft Visual Basic Learning Edition with the Microsoft Press Visual Basic Step by Step book or without the book? I was wondering because I wasn't sure if the Learning addition had enough helpful tutorials and such. Thanks!

Warthog

[BillyB]

There is a version called "control creation edition" that comes with many entry level books on VB. You might use that to get your feet wet before making a more expensive investment.

You would also have another problem with C++ and that is getting your hands on a compiler (without paying through the nose for Visual C++) if your using Windows, but if your a Linux user you can use the g++ compiler...just some things to consider http://www.sysopt.com/forum/smile.gif

[RobRich]

The link to djgpp I posted above is actually a cool, FREE c++ compiler for the Win32 enviroment. Many people rate it extremely high, even large corporations. I personally like Visual Studio for it's easy interface, but the price is ridiculous for a retail copy.

As for starting out, believe it or not, I learned basic programming skills from qbasic (when I was young). I then went to Fortran 77, then Visual C++. I believe starting with Visual Basic is good, since it has some precedural coding and some visual concepts.

[Warthog]

I bought a book on VB programming and so far I'm doing pretty well. I've created some basic "do nothing" applications (ie change color of background, make a beep sound, etc.) but am slowly working up to creating useful apps. Thanks to all you guys' input, you've all probably started me on what could be a career in programming - who knows? Thanks so much!

Warthog