What is a good cheap way to learn programming in C++?

Question

I'm kinda interested to learn in my spare time

Answer 1

Are you using Windows? There are free C++ compilers for Windows (see link below). If you're using Linux, check out GNU C++ (see 2nd link below). Unfortunately, you may need to figure out how to install and configure these tools. Documentation is available, if a bit complicated and lengthy.

Most likely a Linux computer may already have some kind of C++ compiler.

Windows does not come with a C++ compiler. The easiest way for doing C++ on Windows (not the cheapest way) is to get a used copy of Visual C++. Check Craigslist .org or eBay.com to see if you can get a copy.

Now that you have the tools, you can search the Net on C++ articles, tutorials, books, etc. Also check out comp.lang.c++ and other C++ related groups on Usenet (see link below).

Answer 2

While the traditional answer is to go out and buy a book, I feel it is much more productive to start with free online tutorials (such as http://www.cprogramming.com/tutorial.html ). Just do a search for "C++ Tutorials" and you will have more than enough to keep you busy.

After you learn the basic syntax of the language, think of some small applications you would like to create and dive right in. You will come across a lot of hurdles, but that's where the beauty of the Internet comes in. Use Google or Yahoo to search for your answer, or post questions in the hundreds of online C++ forums.

This method allows you to learn naturally. You try something, you come across a problem, and then you find a solution. Going through a book page by page is not going to teach you anything other than to follow directions.

Other than that, I would also recommend starting out with a simpler language if this is your first experience with programming. PHP is extremely easy to learn and work with and has an extremely helpful online community (http://www.php.net/ ), and C# provides a lot of the benefits of C++ and the ease of use of a higher level programming language.

Most importantly, don't give up. The basics of programming are extremely boring to deal with. You are going to have to do some dull work before you can create some interesting and fun programs.

Answer 3

get a "teach yourself XYZ in 21 days" book and follow the lessons inside. beyond that, practice, practice, practice, and try adding extra features to your programs from what you find online.

the better question might be why c++?

if you're an anti-microsoft person, learn java. if you have no strong bias, get visual studio dot net. that's a single development environment that lets you develop web applications, windows applications, console apps, web services, etc. you can develop in c# or vb. the support via intellisense, online help, and web can't be beat.

Modern programming jobs are looking for either java or dot net developers. Web programming jobs ask for asp, or php or java. if you're trying to break into the field, consider starting out with what employers are looking for.

Answer 4

learn by doing. I learned c++ entirely free when I was like 11.

Answer 5

Time and the internet or purchase a C++ book. But, mainly time.

Answer 6

go to the library they have books on it with a cd rom tutorial...then answer the pretend test questions...its a thick book ...good luck ;)

Answer 7

http://www.cplusplus.com/doc/tutorial/

Answer 8

the best ebooks source

http://ebook.blogfa.com/

Answer 9

use ebook,
from
http://free-ebooks.c-o.in/

Answer 10

gamedev.net