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Kate Gregory

C++ is often called the most popular general purpose programming language. This course will teach you what C++ is, what it is used for, and how it is different from other programming languages.

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C++ is often called the most popular general purpose programming language. This course will teach you what C++ is, what it is used for, and how it is different from other programming languages.

Because C++ can be used for so many different things, it can be challenging to see all of it. In this course, C++ 20: The Big Picture, you’ll learn to evaluate whether C++ is the right language for you. First, you’ll explore the problems modern C++ solves well. Next, you’ll discover the C++ ecosystem. Finally, you’ll learn how to leverage the C++ standard library. When you’re finished with this course, you’ll have the skills and knowledge of C++ needed to understand when and where to use this powerful language.

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C++ Standard Library C++ Ecosystem General Purpose Programming

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview
What Is C++ For?
C++ Changes Over Time
Tools for C++
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Suitable for anyone interested in the fundamentals of C++
Provides a broad overview of C++ capabilities
In-demand in many industries
Taught by an experienced instructor

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Reviews summary

High-level c++ 20 overview

According to students, this course provides a comprehensive high-level overview of C++ 20, focusing on its purpose, ecosystem, and standard library. Learners praise its ability to offer a clear understanding of where C++ fits in modern programming and to help them evaluate if the language is suitable for their needs. It is largely seen as an excellent starting point for beginners or those exploring C++, though some note a limited focus on hands-on coding or deep technical implementation, which means it may require additional study for practical application.
Introduces relevant features and changes in the C++20 standard.
"I appreciated the insights into C++20 features and how the language has evolved."
"It was good to see how modern C++ addresses current programming challenges."
"The course provides a timely overview of the C++ ecosystem, including new standards."
Instructor delivers concepts clearly and engagingly.
"The instructor explained complex ideas clearly, making them easy to grasp."
"I found the lectures very engaging and the content well-structured."
"The way the course material was presented helped me understand difficult concepts quickly."
Perfect for those new to C++ or deciding if it's the right language.
"As a beginner, I found this course an excellent starting point to understand C++'s scope."
"If you're wondering what C++ is used for, this course will answer all your questions."
"This is perfect if you need to decide whether to invest time in learning C++ deeply."
Provides a foundational understanding of C++ concepts and ecosystem.
"This course gave me a great understanding of C++'s place in modern programming and its evolution."
"I found the conceptual breakdown very helpful for evaluating if C++ is the right language for me."
"It truly lives up to its name, offering a big picture perspective rather than deep dives."
Lacks practical coding exercises and in-depth implementation details.
"While informative, I wished there were more hands-on coding exercises to solidify the concepts."
"This course is strong on theory but doesn't provide enough practical examples for real-world application."
"I felt like I gained knowledge but not the skills to immediately write C++ code after this."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in C++ 20: The Big Picture with these activities:
Mentor a new C++ learner
Reinforces your own understanding of C++ while helping others learn.
Browse courses on Mentoring
Show steps
  • Find a new C++ learner who is looking for a mentor
  • Schedule regular mentoring sessions
  • Provide guidance and support to the learner
Review C++ syntax
Refreshes your understanding of C++ syntax, making it easier to follow along with the course material.
Browse courses on C++ Syntax
Show steps
  • Read through a C++ syntax tutorial
  • Complete a few practice exercises
Join a C++ study group
Provides an opportunity to connect with other C++ learners, share knowledge, and get support.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find a C++ study group online or in your local area
  • Attend regular study sessions
  • Participate in discussions and ask questions
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Solve C++ coding challenges
Tests your understanding of C++ concepts and helps you develop your problem-solving skills.
Browse courses on Problem Solving
Show steps
  • Find a website or platform that offers C++ coding challenges
  • Select a challenge that matches your skill level
  • Attempt to solve the challenge
  • Review your solution and identify areas for improvement
Write a blog post about a C++ project
Solidifies your understanding of C++ by applying it to a real-world project and documenting your experience.
Show steps
  • Choose a C++ project to work on
  • Develop the project
  • Write a blog post about your project
Read Effective C++: 55 Specific Ways to Improve Your Programs and Designs
Provides valuable insights and best practices for writing effective and efficient C++ code.
Show steps
  • Read through the book
  • Take notes and highlight important concepts
  • Apply the techniques you learn to your own C++ projects
Develop a C++ application
Challenges you to apply your C++ knowledge to a practical project and build a valuable portfolio piece.
Show steps
  • Identify a problem or need that you can address with a C++ application
  • Design and develop the application
  • Test and debug the application
  • Deploy the application

Career center

Learners who complete C++ 20: The Big Picture will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Software Developer
Software Developers create applications and programs for computers and mobile phones. This course may be useful for Software Developers to build a foundation in the C++ programming language, which remains relevant in application development.
Computer Programmer
Computer Programmers write and maintain code for software applications. This course may be useful for Computer Programmers to learn more about the C++ programming language, which is widely used in software application development.
Web Developer
Web Developers design and develop websites and web applications. This course may be useful for Web Developers who need to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used in web development for performance-intensive features.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists analyze and interpret data to provide insights and solutions to businesses. This course may be useful for Data Scientists who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used for data analysis and model building.
Database Administrator
Database Administrators manage and maintain databases. This course may be useful for Database Administrators who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used for database development and optimization.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts design and implement computer systems. This course may be useful for Systems Analysts who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used for developing system applications and utilities.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists research and develop new computer technologies and applications. This course may be useful for Computer Scientists who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is a foundational language in computer science and is used for research and development purposes.
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Managers plan and oversee the use of computer systems and networks within an organization. This course may be useful for Information Technology Managers who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used in developing and managing IT systems.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is used in the development of a variety of software systems.
Web Designer
Web Designers create the look and layout of websites and web applications. This course may be useful for Web Designers who need to learn about the C++ programming language, which is occasionally used for developing interactive web applications.
Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analysts plan and implement security measures to protect an organization's computer systems and data. This course may be useful for Information Security Analysts who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used for developing security systems and tools.
Systems Software Developer
Systems Software Developers create and maintain the operating systems and other software that runs computers and networks. This course may be useful for Systems Software Developers who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is widely used for developing systems software.
Embedded Software Engineer
Embedded Software Engineers design and develop software for embedded systems, such as those found in cars, medical devices, and industrial machines. This course may be useful for Embedded Software Engineers who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is widely used for developing embedded software.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware, such as processors, memory, and circuit boards. This course may be useful for Computer Hardware Engineers who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used for developing hardware drivers and firmware.
Artificial Intelligence Engineer
Artificial Intelligence Engineers design and develop artificial intelligence systems. This course may be useful for Artificial Intelligence Engineers who want to learn about the C++ programming language, which is sometimes used for developing performance-intensive AI algorithms and applications.

Reading list

We've selected six books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in C++ 20: The Big Picture.
Classic and authoritative reference on C++. It is written by the creator of the language and is essential reading for anyone who wants to learn about C++ in depth.
Comprehensive guide to C++ templates. It covers everything you need to know about templates, from the basics to advanced topics such as metaprogramming.
Practical guide to C++ concurrency. It covers all the major concurrency features of C++, including threads, locks, and atomic operations.
Is an excellent starting point for those who are unfamiliar with C++. It covers the basics of the language in a clear and concise way.

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