A Beginner's Guide to C++ Language

A Beginner's Guide to C++ Language

10 Feb 2024
Beginner
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6 min read
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What is C++ language?

Do you have a knack for coding and programming? Are you considering learning the C++ language but don't know where to start? If so, this C++ tutorial is perfect for beginners just like you! C++ is an object-oriented, case-sensitive, free-form programming languagethat is an extension of C programming. It is a mid-level programming language that encapsulates the features of both low-level and high-level languages. If you want to become a certified C++ developer, join our C++ Training Program

History of C++ language

The C++ language was developed in the year 1980 by Bjarne Stroustrup at the Bell laboratories of AT&T, which is located in the USA. Let's evaluate the time-frame of the language-

LanguageYearDeveloped By
Algol1960International Group
BCPL1967Martin Richard
B1970Ken Thompson
Traditional C1972Dennis Ritchie
K & R C1978Kernighan & Dennis Ritchie
C++1980Bjarne Stroustrup

Features of C++ language

The features of C++ language are:

1. Simple- C++ language is a straightforward programming language that gives a structural approach to the program. It breaks the program into various parts and generates multiple data types and library functions.

2. Abstract data type- C++ has a very complex data type, called Abstract Data Type (ADT). This data type is used in classes.

3. Machine-independent or portable- C++ language can be used in various platforms as it is a platform-independent language and only needs some machine-specific changes.

4. Mid-level programming language- C++ can work as a high-level language as well as a low-level language so it is called a Mid-level programming language.

5. Structured programming language- C++ is a Structured programming language so that users can break the program into parts by using functions.

6. Rich Library- C++ language has many built-in functions that help in development. Some libraries are used in C++ language, those are

  • <iostream>
  • <cmath>
  • <cstdlib>
  • <fstream>

7. Memory Management- In C++ language many memory management operators help to save memory and improve the program efficiency. These operators use the runtime method to allocate and deallocate the memory. Some memory management operators in C++ language are, new, delete and many more.

8. Quick compilation- In C++ language, the program runs quickly. That is why the compilation time and the execution time of the C++ language are faster than other languages.

9. Pointers- In C++ language pointers are used for memory, structure, function, and arrays. Programmers as well as users can directly interact with the memory by using the pointer.

10. Recursion- C++ programming provides the feature of recursion, in which a function can be called within a function. It generates the reusability of the code.

11. Extensible- C++ language can easily adopt any new feature so it is called an extensive programming language

12. Object-oriented- C++ supports object-oriented programming that includes the concepts of encapsulation, data abstraction,data hiding,etc. It can be done easily by using keywords such as private, public, and protected access specifiers. This feature in C++ makes maintenance and development easier.

13. Compiler-based- C++ language is a compiler-based programming language so no program in C++ can be done without compilation. Compilers for C++ are easily available in the market and take a little storage space.

14. Reusability- C++ programs can be reused because C++ supports inheritance so that any program can be used in different programs. A programmer can save any part of the program in library files and can invoke them to the next program by adding the library files.

15. Errors can be detected easily- Errors can be detected easily because C++ language supports the features of exception handling to handle the error in the program.

Read More - C++ Interview Questions Interview Questions for Freshers

System Requirements for Writing a C++ Program

For installing C++ language on your device there are a few steps to follow:

  1. A text editor like notepad, notepad++, sublime text, etc.
  2. Get any compiler like turbo C++ downloaded to your computer
  3. You can also use an IDE(Integrated Development Environment) to write and compile your code. There are many open-source IDEs like Eclipse and Visual Studio Code.
Summary

C++ is a powerful language that can be used for a variety of purposes. This particular article gives a glimpse of what C++ language is including its features. The article also gives an idea about the history of the language. If you're just getting started, our guide will help you understand the basics and you can also get a C++ certification so that you can begin programming with confidence. Thanks for reading and good luck!

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About Author
Shailendra Chauhan (Microsoft MVP, Founder & CEO at Scholarhat by DotNetTricks)

Shailendra Chauhan is the Founder and CEO at ScholarHat by DotNetTricks which is a brand when it comes to e-Learning. He provides training and consultation over an array of technologies like Cloud, .NET, Angular, React, Node, Microservices, Containers and Mobile Apps development. He has been awarded Microsoft MVP 9th time in a row (2016-2024). He has changed many lives with his writings and unique training programs. He has a number of most sought-after books to his name which has helped job aspirants in cracking tough interviews with ease.
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