Herbert Schildt - C++: A Beginner’s Guide

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Herbert Schildt is the worlds leading programming author. He is an authority on the C, C++, Java, and C# languages, and is a master Windows programmer. His programming books have sold more than 3 million copies worldwide and have been translated into all major foreign languages. He is the author of numerous bestsellers, including C++: The Complete Reference, C#: The Complete Reference, Java 2: The Complete Reference, C#: A Beginners Guide, Java 2: A Beginners Guide, and C: The Complete Reference. Schildt holds a masters degree in computer science from the University of Illinois. He can be reached at his consulting office at (217) 586-4683.

C++ is the preeminent language for the development of high-performance software. It is also the language that defines the modern syntax and style that have influenced all subsequent languages. For example, both Java and C# are descended from C++. Moreover, C++ is the universal language of programming, in which nearly all professional programmers have at least passing competency. By learning C++, you will be establishing a solid foundation that will enable you to pursue any aspect of programming today.

The purpose of this book is to teach you the fundamentals of C++ programming. It uses a step-by-step approach complete with numerous examples, self-tests, and projects. It assumes no previous programming experience. The book starts with the basics, such as how to compile and run a C++ program. It then discusses the keywords, features, and constructs that comprise the C++ language. By the time you finish, you will have a firm grasp of the essentials of C++ programming.

It is important to state at the outset that this book is just a starting point. C++ is a large, sophisticated language, and successful C++ programming involves more than just the keywords, operators, and syntax that define the language. It also involves the use of an extensive set of class and function libraries that aid in the development of programs. Although several of the library elements are discussed in this book, because of space limitations, most are not. To be a top-notch C++ programmer implies mastery of C++ libraries, too. After completing this book, you will have the knowledge to explore the libraries and all other aspects of C++.

This book presents an evenly paced tutorial in which each section builds upon the previous one. It contains 12 modules, each discussing an aspect of C++. This book is unique because it includes several special elements that reinforce what you are learning.

Each module begins with a set of critical skills that tell you what you will be learning. The location of each skill is indicated within the module.

Each module concludes with a Mastery Check, a self-test that lets you test your knowledge. The answers are found on the Web at this books page at www.osborne.com.

At the end of each major section is a Progress Check that tests your understanding of the key points that were presented. The answers to these questions are at the bottom of the page.

Sprinkled throughout the book are special Ask the Expert boxes. These contain additional information or interesting commentary about a topic. They use a Question/Answer format.

Each module contains one or more projects that show you how to apply what you are learning. These are real-world examples that you can use as starting points for your own programs.

This book assumes no previous programming experience. Thus, if you have never programmed before, you can use this book. Of course, in this day and age, most readers will have at least a little prior programming experience. For many, this previous experience will be in Java or C#. As you will learn, C++ is the parent of both of these languages. Therefore, if you already know Java or C#, then you will be able to learn C++ easily.