C# and the .NET Platform

Dear Reader,

The C# language and the .NET platform have existed for quite some time and have become a mainstay of modern software development. As expected, .NET 4 brings a wealth of new APIs to the base class libraries and several new syntactical constructs to C#. For example, it is now possible to create C# methods that support optional and named arguments. As well, you are able to resolve types completely at runtime using the new dynamic keyword. As far as APIs are concerned, this edition of Pro C# 2010 and the .NET 4 Platform will cover a number of new details, including:

• the Dynamic Language Runtime (DLR)
• the Task Parallel Library (TPL, including PLINQ)
• the ADO.NET Entity Framework (as well as LINQ to EF)
• expanded coverage of the Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) API
• improved support for COM interop

If you're checking out this book for the first time, understand that it targets experienced software professionals and students of computer science—so please don't expect three chapters devoted to "variable scope" here! The mission of this text is to provide you with a rock-solid foundation in the C# programming language (including a full discussion of OOP) and the critical aspects of the .NET 4 platform.

Once you digest the information presented in the book you hold in your hands, you'll be in a perfect position to apply this knowledge to your specific programming assignments, and you'll be well-equipped to explore the .NET universe on your own terms.

Andrew Troelsen
Microsoft MVP, Visual Developer—Visual C#; Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT)