Introduction to Programming: C/C++

Learn the fundamentals of programming with this comprehensive course covering the C language and an introduction to C++. This course provides a strong foundation in procedural programming and introduces object-oriented concepts, setting you up for success in learning higher-level languages like C#, Java, and Python.

What You'll Learn:

This course systematically builds your programming skills, starting with core concepts and progressing to advanced techniques. You'll move from fundamental keywords to high-level abstraction, preparing you for a smooth transition to more complex languages.

C Language Fundamentals:

• Getting Started: Course introduction, success strategies, understanding programming basics, and environment setup.
• Core Concepts:
  • Data Types: Master fundamental data types for efficient data representation.
  • Input/Output: Learn to interact with the user and external systems.
  • Operators: Understand and utilize various operators for calculations and comparisons.
  • Conditionals: Control program flow with if, else if, and else statements.
  • Nested Conditionals & Switches: Handle complex decision-making scenarios.
• Control Flow:
  • Loops: Utilize for and while loops for repetitive tasks.
  • Functions: Write reusable code blocks to improve organization.
  • Recursion: Explore recursive function design.
  • Arrays & Matrices: Work with structured data using arrays and matrices.
• Advanced C:
  • Strings & String Functions: Manipulate text data effectively.
  • ASCII: Understand character encoding.
  • Pointers: Gain control over memory addresses.
  • Function Pointers: Dynamically call functions.
  • Void Pointers & Static: Advanced pointer concepts.
  • Structures & Unions: Create custom data types.
• Memory Management:
  • Memory Functions (malloc, calloc, realloc): Allocate and deallocate memory dynamically.
  • Dynamic Strings & Arrays: Manage memory for strings and arrays at runtime.
  • Error Handling: Implement robust error handling mechanisms.
• File Handling & Preprocessor:
  • Working with Files: Read from and write to files.
  • Binary File I/O: Handle binary data.
  • Random Number Generation: Generate random numbers for various applications.
  • Preprocessor Directives: Understand preprocessor directives, scope, and headers.
  • Conditional Compilation: Control code compilation based on conditions.
  • Preprocessor Operators: Utilize preprocessor operators.

Introduction to C++:

• C++ vs. C: Understand the key differences, including new data types (strings, booleans) and function/argument overloading.
• Object-Oriented Programming (OOP):
  • Classes & Objects: Introduction to classes and object creation.
  • Constructors & Objects: Learn to initialize objects correctly.
  • Class Headers & Namespaces: Organize code with headers and namespaces.
  • Member Initializer Lists: Efficiently initialize member variables.
  • Access Keywords: Control access to class members.
  • this Pointer: Understand the this pointer.
  • friend Functions: Define friend functions for access to private members.
  • Inheritance & Polymorphism: Implement inheritance and polymorphism for code reuse and flexibility.
  • Abstract Classes & Interfaces: Design abstract classes and interfaces.
  • virtual Functions: Implement virtual functions for dynamic dispatch.
  • Operator Overloading: Customize operator behavior.
  • Generic Types/Classes (Templates): Write generic code that works with different data types.
  • Exceptions: Handle runtime errors gracefully.
• Files & Enumerations: Work with files and define enumerations.

Capstone Project:

• Final Exam: Assess your understanding of the course material.
• Capstone Project: Apply your knowledge to a practical programming project.

Recommended Textbooks:

• "C Programming Language, 2nd Edition" by Brian W. Kernighan and Dennis M. Ritchie
• "The C++ Standard Library: A Tutorial and Reference, 1st Edition" by Nicolai M. Josuttis