I'm new to C++ and feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the concepts like variables, data types, loops, functions, and pointers. If you had to start C++ from scratch again, what would you focus on first to build a solid foundation? I'd love to hear any advice or stories from your own experiences!
6 Answers
I’d recommend starting with C first. It’s simpler and will help you grasp essential programming concepts. After that, transitioning to C++ feels much easier!
Almost every programming language has concepts like variables and pointers, so don’t stress too much about that. If you want a smart strategy, find a resource you like, experiment with some code, and always refer back to the documentation. I recommend checking out learncpp.com; it’s great for both basics and intermediate topics!
Grab a physical book on C++ and read it from cover to cover. Make sure you download an editor and compiler before doing so. It helps to learn without any distractions from the internet. That hands-on approach is really helpful!
Twenty years ago, I started with C++ as my first OOP language and really struggled until I read a book on Smalltalk. It was a game-changer for understanding C++ better. Best of luck on your journey!
I think the best approach is to start with Object-Oriented Programming (OOP) in a statically-typed language like C#. Once you get the hang of that, dive into pointers and maybe even write a simple compiler to understand underlying concepts. Mastering these topics will really set you up for success in C++.
Yeah, I’d say C# might be a more user-friendly option for beginners compared to Java.
Check out Hyperskill for a structured C++ course, or Codecademy for some interactive coding. You could also start with a basic C course to get familiarized with programming before jumping to C++ since their syntax is pretty similar.
But remember, even if you’re new, you can still learn a lot from experimenting, regardless of resources!