chapter one

1 C++ is absolutely brilliant

 

This chapter covers

  • Learning why C++ is great
  • Considering spoken vs computer languages
  • Discovering the reasons to learn C++
  • Investigating how C++ 20 is different from previous versions
  • Getting into the correct mindset for programming and C++, in particular
  • Exploring the book’s approach and expectations

C++ is alive and kicking and is considered by many to be one of the most powerful and robust programming languages across all platforms. C++ plays a constant key role in evolving technologies of all sorts – from mobile application, web application, communication and networking, desktop applications, and up to the most advanced AI, machine learning, autonomous cars, rocket science and so much more. Everywhere you look, C++ fingerprints are all over it. To use the words of Bjarne Stroustrup, the creator and designer of C++, " I find it most gratifying that C++ has been used in science: the human genome project, the fundamental physics research at CERN and elsewhere, and the Mars Rovers. It feels great to have made a contribution, however small".

1.1 Why C++ is awesome

1.1.1 The peeled onion principal

1.1.2 Is C++ actually awesome?

1.2 Spoken languages vs programming language

1.3 All the good reasons to learn C++

1.3.1 C++ == Salary++

1.3.2 Sometimes C++ is the less appropriate choice

1.4 C++ 20 - in the name of simplification

1.5 A C++ state of mind

1.6 Our approach

1.6.1 Building a solid foundation

1.6.2 What we expect from you

1.6.3 What you should expect from this book

1.6.4 Making the best out of this book

1.7 Summary