C++ Crash Course: a fast-Paced Introduction

About This Book
Although a number of very high-quality books are available to modern 
C++ programmers, such as Scott Meyer’s Effective Modern C++ and Bjarne 
Stroustrup’s The C++ Programming Language, 4th Edition, they’re generally 
quite advanced. Some introductory C++ texts are available, but they often 
skip over crucial details because they’re geared to those totally new to pro-
gramming. For the experienced programmer, it’s not clear where to dive into 
the C++ language.
I prefer to learn about complicated topics deliberately, building concepts 
from their fundamental elements. C++ has a daunting reputation because 
its fundamental elements nest so tightly together, making it difficult to con-
struct a complete picture of the language. When I learned C++, I struggled 
to get my mind around the language, bouncing among books, videos, and 
exhausted colleagues. So I wrote the book I wish I’d had five years ago.

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Introduction
xxxiii
Who Should Read This Book?
This book is intended for intermediate to advanced programmers already 
familiar with basic programming concepts. If you don’t specifically have 
system programming experience, that’s okay. Experienced application pro-
grammers are welcome.
N O T E
 
If you’re a seasoned C programmer or an aspiring system programmer wonder-
ing whether you should invest in learning C++, be sure to read An Overture to 
C Programmers on page xxxvii for a detailed examination.
What’s in This Book?
The book is divided into two parts. Part I covers the core C++ language. 
Rather than presenting the C++ language chronologically (from old-style 
C++ 98 to modern C++11/14/17), you’ll learn idiomatic, modern C++ 
directly. Part II introduces you to the world of the C++ Standard Library 
(stdlib) where you’ll learn the most important and essential concepts.