Synopses & Reviews
If you’ve always wanted to learn how to program a computer, or to learn the widely used C++ programming language in particular, C++ Without Fear, Third Edition, offers an ideal way to get you started.
Written with the same approach that earned the first edition rave reviews, the author first emphasizes short, simple examples that are easy to enter; then, within a couple of chapters, he has you creating useful utilities, playing games, and using the computer to solve interesting puzzles. His approach is a welcome departure from many programming texts, which quickly get bogged down in complex and sometimes meaningless examples. You’ll find here, patiently explained and clearly illustrated, everything you need to learn programming quickly, and to have fun doing it!
Yes, programming can be a complex task, and C++ is a language often used by professionals. In fact, many of the coolest games, graphics, and Internet applications are created with C++, and it’s even been used on the Mars rovers. But the language, like the monster pictured on the cover, need not be all that fearsome. Broken down to its essentials, and enhanced by simple examples, practical exercises, and the whys and tricks behind each language feature, you’ll be amazed at the rapid progress you can make.
Synopsis
Learning C++ Doesn't Have to Be Difficult
Have you ever wanted to learn programming? Have you ever wanted to learn the C++ language behind many of today's hottest games, business programs, and even advanced spacecraft?
C++ Without Fear, Third Edition, is the ideal way to get started. Now updated for the newest C++14 standard and the free Microsoft Visual C++ Community Edition, it will quickly make you productive with C++ even if you've never written a line of code
Brian Overland has earned rave reviews for this book's approach to teaching C++. He starts with short, simple examples you can easily enter and run. Within a couple of chapters, you'll be creating useful utilities, playing games, and solving puzzles. Everything's simplified to its essentials, patiently explained, and clearly illustrated with practical examples and exercises that help you make progress quickly.
Overland reveals the "whys" and "tricks" behind each C++ language feature. And you'll never get bogged down in complex or pointless examples: He keeps you 100% focused on learning what works and what matters--while having fun
This new and improved edition
- Covers installing and using the free Microsoft Visual C++ Community Edition--but you can use any version of C++
- Explains valuable improvements in the new C++14 standard
- Modularizes C++14 coverage so it's easy to write code that works with older versions
- Teaches with even more puzzles, games, and relevant exercises
- Offers more "why" and "how-to" coverage of object orientation, today's #1 approach to programming
- Presents more ways to use Standard Template Library (STL) code to save time and get more done
- Contains an expanded reference section for all your day-to-day programming
Whether you want to learn C++ programming for pleasure or you're considering a career in programming, this book is an outstanding choice.
Table of Contents
Proposed Table of Contents
Preface to the Third Edition
Chapter 1. Your First C++ Programs
Chapter 2. Decisions, Decisions
Chapter 3. The Handy, All-Purpose “For” Statement
Chapter 4. Functions: Many Are Called
Chapter 5. Arrays: All In a Row…
Chapter 6. Pointers: Getting a Handle on Data
Chapter 7. Strings: Getting a Handle on Text
Chapter 8. Files: Electronic Storage
Chapter 9. Some Advanced Programming Techniques
Chapter 10. Introducing Classes: The Fraction Class
Chapter 11. Constructors: If You Build It…
Chapter 12. Operator Functions: Doing It With Class
Chapter 13. Dynamic Memory and the String Class
Chapter 14. Two Complete OOP Examples
Chapter 15. Easy Programming with STL
Chapter 16. Inheritance: What a Legacy
Chapter 17. Polymorphism: Object Independence
Chapter 18. More STL Containers
Chapter 19. Advanced Features of C++14 and C++17
Appendix A. Operators
Appendix B. Data Types
Appendix C. Syntax Summary
Appendix D. Preprocessor Directives
Appendix E. ASCII Codes
Appendix F. Standard Library Functions
Appendix G. I/O Stream Objects and Classes
Appendix H. STL Classes and Objects
Appendix I. Glossary of Terms