Key FeaturesThis book gets you started with the exciting world of C++ programmingIt will enable you to write C++ code that uses the standard library, has a level of object orientation, and uses memory in a safe and effective wayIt forms the basis of programming and covers concepts such as data structures and the core programming languageBook DescriptionC++ has come a long way and is now adopted in several contexts. Its key strengths are its software infrastructure and resource-constrained applications, including desktop applications, servers, and performance-critical applications, not to forget its importance in game programming. Despite its strengths in these areas, beginners usually tend to shy away from learning the language because of its steep learning curve.The main mission of this book is to make you familiar and comfortable with C++. You will finish the book not only being able to write your own code, but more importantly, you will be able to read other projects. It is only by being able to read others code that you will progress from a beginner to an advanced programmer. This book is the first step in that progression.The first task is to familiarize you with the structure of C++ projects so you will know how to start reading a project. Next, you will be able to identify the main structures in the language, functions, and classes, and feel confident being able to identify the execution flow through the code. You will then become aware of the facilities of the standard library and be able to determine whether you need to write a routine yourself, or use an existing routine in the standard library.Throughout the book, there is a big emphasis on memory and pointers. You will understand memory usage, allocation, and access, and be able to write code that does not leak memory. Finally, you will learn about C++ classes and get an introduction to object orientation and polymorphism.What you will learnGet familiar with the structure of C++ projectsIdentify the main structures in the language: functions and classesFeel confident about being able to identify the execution flow through the codeBe aware of the facilities of the standard libraryGain insights into the basic concepts of object orientationKnow how to debug your programsGet acquainted with the standard C++ libraryAbout the AuthorRichard Grimes has been programming in C++ for 25 years, working on projects as diverse as scientific control and analysis and finance analysis to remote objects for the automotive manufacturing industry. He has spoken at 70 international conferences on Microsoft technologies (including C++ and C#) and has written 8 books, 150 articles for programming journals, and 5 training courses for Microsoft. Richard was awarded Microsoft MVP for 10 years (1998-2007). He has a reputation for his deep understanding of the .NET framework and C++ and the frank way in which he assesses new technology.Table of ContentsStarting with C++Understanding Language FeaturesExploring C++ TypesWorking with Memory, Arrays, and PointersUsing FunctionsClassesIntroduction to Object-Orientated ProgrammingUsing the Standard Library ContainersUsing StringsDiagnostics and Debugging