What Is C++? (And How to Learn It)

C++ is among the world's top 10 most widely used programming languages [1]. It’s a general-purpose programming language (GPL), which means you can use it to build any program. To determine whether C++ is the right programming language for you, learn more about its use cases, benefits, potential drawbacks, and how to start building skills.

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What is C++ language?

C++ (or “C plus plus”) is a generic programming language for building software. It is an object-oriented language. In other words, it emphasizes using data fields with unique attributes (also known as objects) rather than relying on logic or functions. A common example of an object is a user account on a website. A user account typically contains closely related data like a first name, last name, and email address. Bundling that information together into an object makes it easy to replicate the process of creating a new online account.

When was C++ created?

Bjarne Stroustrup invented C++ in 1979 to extend C, a procedural programming language. He designed it to offer programmers more control over memory and system resources.

What is C++ used for?

Over time, C++ has become a choice language for building fast and reliable software. Its versatility makes it an excellent option for complex applications, embedded systems, and Internet of Things (IoT) devices. A few common areas where you may opt for C++ include:

• Software engineering: A few applications you might use daily that utilize C++ include Netflix and Amazon.

• Operating system (OS) development uses C++: Examples of OSs that use C++ include Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and iOS.

• Graphical user interfaces: C++ is often used for graphical user interface (GUI) design.

• Virtual reality (VR): C++ can be an excellent language to learn if you want to develop VR applications.

• Blockchain technology: The well-known cryptocurrency Bitcoin was developed in C++. You can also use it to create smart contracts.

• Game development: You can develop games and gaming consoles with C++. For example, the game World of Warcraft and the Xbox console utilize C++.

Read more: How to Become a C++ Developer

Should you learn C++?

C++ is a great language to learn if you want to gain a deep understanding of how computers work. It’s generally considered a good starting point for novice or beginner coders. With knowledge of C++, you may also be able to pick up other languages like Python or JavaScript more easily.

What is the difference between C and C++?

C++ is an extension of C, which was one of the earliest programming languages. While C++ retains the functionality of C, such as the ability to develop operating systems and desktop applications, it extends user control over system memory and resource use. This means you can manage the memory within your applications, increasing the speed and performance of C++-based video games, software, devices, and more.

Advantages of learning C++

Programming in C++ offers several advantages. Because it is object-oriented, you can easily organize and classify the code. Instead of rewriting code from scratch, you can reuse it. You can also use C++ to interact directly with a computer’s hardware. As a result, you can control how a system uses its computational resources, like software, hardware, and memory. 

Career advancement opportunities

Experience with C++ can introduce you to job opportunities with high-paying salaries and high projected job growth. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates software developers (along with quality assurance analysts and testers) earn a median annual salary of $131,450 as of 2024, with a projected job growth rate of 17 percent over the next decade [3]. Glassdoor reports a similarly high salary, with the annual median total pay for C developers in the US estimated at $115,000, which includes bonuses and commissions [4].

How to learn C++

C++ basics include storing information, repeating actions through loops, and collecting user input. The list below outlines a few key concepts for C++ beginners to explore, then check out the next section for recommendations on where to start:

• Conditionals like “if statements,” “if else statements,” and “switch case statements,” which tell a computer what to do under certain conditions

• How to assign classes to objects (data fields with unique attributes)

• How to write code using C++ syntax, the predefined symbols and characters that determine how a computer reads the code

• How to compile and link a C++ file so that the code can run on a machine 

Online C++ programming classes

When starting out, gaining practical experience in boot camps or Guided Projects can help you put your knowledge into practice. Consider a few beginner-friendly online courses to get you started:

• Programming in C++: A Hands-on Introduction Specialization by Codio (certificate upon completion)

• Introduction to Object-Oriented Programming in C++ by the University of London

• Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose from Princeton University

You can also practice basic C++ with exercises like printing “Hello, World,” converting Celsius to Fahrenheit, and performing arithmetic operations.

Joining the C++ developer community

Connecting with and learning from other, more experienced programmers can be helpful. For example, you may consider joining the C++ Slack community or following questions with the C++ tag on Stack Exchange. You can also follow relevant YouTube channels like Programming with Mosh. Once you’ve gained some technical expertise and practiced coding in C++ on your own, you might be ready to apply your skills to a real-life project on a collaborative site like GitHub.

Learn more about C++ code and programming with free resources

Enhancing your skill set for your career? Stay updated on the latest trends in your industry with Career Chat. You can learn more about programming and C++ by exploring the following options: 

• Watch a video: Mastering the Code: Essential Skills Every Software Developer Needs.

• Check out a tutorial: Python Syntax Cheat Sheet

• Read an insider story: How This Self-Taught Web Developer Went Straight to a Master's Degree

You can also subscribe to Coursera Plus to learn and earn credentials at your own pace from over 170 leading companies and universities. With a monthly or annual subscription, you’ll gain access to over 10,000 programs—just check the course page to confirm your selection is included.

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