I'm a hobbyist looking to deeply understand C++. I want to learn not just how to make things work, but why we do things a certain way and how to rebuild everything from scratch if necessary. I've been at this for over five years, and I'm interested in both Visual Studio and non-Visual Studio environments. Can anyone share their top resources, especially those that truly made a difference for them or that they found enjoyable? I'm looking for foundational books or tools that focus on the nuts and bolts of C++.
1 Answer
If you want to truly grasp C++, definitely check out Stroustrup's texts and the C++ Primer. Read them thoroughly instead of skimming. Using a tool like Compiler Explorer along with a debugger helps you see what your code becomes behind the scenes. Visual Studio is good for Windows, but getting your hands dirty with Linux and compilers like gcc or clang will teach you loads about how C++ really works. You learn the most when you create something that breaks memory and then dig into why it happened.
I totally agree! I've read the C++ Primer during my studies, and it was hands down the best book I went through. It really deepened my understanding of OOP too. I recommend it all the time to my students!