Can I Become Proficient in C After Learning the Basics of C++?

I think it boils down to your goals. C++ is often favored in competitive programming because of time complexity benefits, but knowing C could give you a valuable edge depending on career opportunities. So if you're keen on working with C projects, learning it might be a wise move.

Honestly, some folks say that once you dive into C++, learning C is nearly impossible, like you've locked yourself out of that cave. But don't sweat it; you can still pick up C if you're really into those projects! Just go for it, and who knows, you might find the transition easier than expected.

C and C++ are pretty similar, so if you've got a strong foundation in one, you'll probably adapt to the other without too much trouble. Plus, C is still relevant, especially for certain types of projects, so if you're aiming for proficiency, it's definitely worth your while!