Starting/learning C++ - which package to buy?

[UKLee]

Hi all,

Having started doing some programming in Visual Basic a while ago, I now want to start learning C++. I already have a few books on order from the local library to "try before I buy" http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif. Now I am wondering - which C++ development program(s) should I buy first? Should I go for Borland, or MSVC++, or something else? I'd be grateful for any advice.

Lee

[ScaryBinary]

A while ago I bought an "Educational" version of Microsoft Visual C++ 6.0. It was only like $30 with a rebate, and it came with the infamous Sams "Learn C++ in 24 Hours" or something like that. It really was a pretty good deal, and at least got me familiar with the language. There's no way you can learn C++ in 24 hours, so you'll definitly need a better book for the nitty-gritty stuff. There are also plenty of tutorial sites and BBSs out there for more specific help. Good luck! I'm in the process of learning it myself, and it's a lot of fun when you finally figure out how to do something!

ScaryBinary

[Joel Kleppinger]

I actually recommend a different route:

Get the book titled "Teach Yourself C++" in at least the 5th edition (the one I have). It's a 700 page book that comes with a Win32 compiler which isn't bad for learning with. Price on the book cover: $29.95.

Later, once you've become more proficient, you can start to look at something by Borland or MS (or maybe for Linux http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/wink.gif)

[UKLee]

Thanks a lot for the advice - I think now i will hold off shelling out for the full Visual C++ or Borland for a little while http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif I am just checking Amazon for the books.

But when (if!) I get the hang of the basics, which one do you think I should go for - Borland or Visual C++, or something else?

[MadMatt]

When I took C, about half the class bought Microsoft and the other half bought Borland. The Borland folks had ALOT of problems with it - runtime erros, DLL problems, BSOD's, etc. This was a few years ago, so maybe it's gotten better. Still, I'd recommend you go with MS Visual C++.

[Kruppt]

I just bought a set of books, 14 to a set published by Microsoft. Microsoft C/C++ Version 7.0. I purchased them from a second hand book store and they had the software also. Payed $30 for them. Are these all that is needed to learn C/C++ ?

[Brangwen]

Try this program to get started.
http://www.delorie.com/djgpp/v2faq/faq.html

Brangwen http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/wink.gif


[This message has been edited by Brangwen (edited 07-18-2000).]

[geekgrl]

Good luck. I had to take the intro class for Visual C++ in college - my teacher was something that I can't say in the forum http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/wink.gif Let's just say she isn't very nice words.. but I taught myself most of it, so I know you can too! http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif

[U-96]

didn't Borland release their C compiler for free recently? Maybe it was C rather than C++, but it might be worth looking into.

[stodge]

If you can use Linux, use the Gnu c++ compiler - its free.

[UKLee]

Thanks again to everyone who has posted advice and comments on this subject http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif

I am now getting started with a few books, including that you mentioned, Mr Kleppinger (found it at the library http://sysopt.earthweb.com/forum/smile.gif) and, Brangwen, I have downloaded the DJGPP (which I believe is a port of GNU?) program files to get me going.

Plus, if anyone else who might be interested, I found that there are a few decent-looking compilers and IDEs available for free from sites like Softseek and Download.

[Krymson]

Borland Released their C++ builder 5.5 compiler.
get it at www.borland.com(only (http://www.borland.com(only) 8.7 meg download)