Should I learn C++?

Question

hi, im a grade 10 student and im thinking about learning C++. One of my classmates knows C++ and hes really smart overall, and especially at math. In a computer class i did like basic Turbo Pascal programming and it wasn't too bad. I might find programming to be interesting. I like the idea of creating my own programs, and i know its easier said than done but it sounds cool to make games etc. I was gonna get the C++ for dummies book or something to learn it. So would it really be worthwhile for me to learn C++? Or maybe some other programming language like Java and such? I dont know... please help me out. thanks =]

Answer 1

Learning any program language (especially C++) will give you a great shot at having a well paying job (avg. $75k salary) and the ability to make your own programs/games ect.



Since you already have a small foundation in another language, I highly recommend becoming familiar with Python, Java (Web), Action Script (Flash) or even Visual Basic.



I tried learning C++ from a typical "Teach Yourself C++" book and first thing they'll tell you...you should already be comfortable with programming before trying any incarnation of C.



Programming is very fun, but can also be irritating, small typos will cause errors (most programs will detect these before trying to compile code aka creating .exe)



QBasic is another easy start that might help you out. Once you are comfortable with coding in general give C++ a swing, there are plenty of Game Programming in C++ books out there, check your library or Amazon for good deals.



Go for it man! Programming is very lucrative and rewarding! You are at a young age and that is the best time to learn new things! And yes, it will make you smarter, in a logical way at least :P



Good luck!

Answer 2

Yes it's always better to learn C first and I will explain why. C is a very general purpose programming language. It is used to solve a wide range of programming problems. C++ takes it to another level by making object oriented programming a LOT easier while using the standard library provided by C. C does have advantages too such as a wide array of superior compilers to choose from. You will not find C difficult after learning C++ because I learnt C++ 4 years before I even touched a C book. Personally, dealing with pointers in C was a pain in the neck whether you do it first or not you will have to do it at some point. It's best to know both languages but just remember that 90%+ of all the programs out there can be written in either language.

Answer 3

For sure!



When you are ready to start learning Object-Oriented Programming it might be easier to learn on Java or Ruby. But if you like programming definitely learn to program in C/C++ as well. Once you get good enough you will be able to easily switch between languages.



Here is a really fun tutorial that explains some good programming concepts and has comics:

http://poignantguide.net/ruby/

It is in Ruby, but it doesn't hurt to try that out as well.



I wish I could point you towards some good beginner C/C++ tutorials but I do not really know of any. I think the C++ for dummies book might be an ok place to start, but C/C++ can be really picky about certain things, so it might be better to get more comfortable in another programming language first (PHP, Python, Ruby, Javascript). Just try not to get discouraged and keep trying!



The first language I learned to program in was Scheme. It might put a sour taste in many peoples mouths... but I loved it. It is a great way to break your thinking style and force yourself to think in an entirely new way.



If you are interested in making games (most programmer's under the age of 30 are, and learned to program mostly because of this) You might want to check out some of these programs that are designed to teach programming concepts while making games and have a lot of really great in depth detailed tutorials.

http://www.gamemaker.nl/

http://www.garagegames.com/products/torque/tgb/



If you plan on going to college for Computer Science you will be ahead of the curve.



Come see me in 1 years time from now for more advice.

Answer 4

I believe that a mix of C and C++ would be your best bet to get a good understanding and skills that can be used for games, Windows/Unix programming etc.

Answer 5

It really depends on what you want to do. research what you are interested in then see what languages are used to do that.