C Programming: Pointers and Memory Management from edX

In this course, we will examine a key concept, foundational to any programming language: the usage of memory.

This course builds upon the basic concept of pointers, discussed in C Programming: Modular Programming and Memory Management, and introduces the more advanced usage of pointers and pointer arithmetic. Arrays of pointers and multidimensional arrays are addressed, and you will learn how to allocate memory for your own data during program execution. This is called dynamic memory allocation at runtime using pointers.

Within moments you will be coding hands-on in a new browser tool developed for this course, receiving instant feedback on your code. No need to install anything!

In this course, you will gain experience with programming concepts that are foundational to any programming language.

At the end of this short course, you will reach the fourth milestone in the C Programming with Linux Professional Certificate program, unlocking the door to a career in computer engineering.

This course has received financial support from the Patrick & Lina Drahi Foundation.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Visualize the concept of a pointer and use it to pass variables to functions by reference in order to modify them via the function
Apply pointer arithmetic in order to address elements of both one-dimensional and multi-dimensional arrays

Use arrays of strings to store lists of strings in one array variable
Control memory usage by dynamically allocating and freeing memory at runtime

Visualize the concept of a pointer and use it to pass variables to functions by reference in order to modify them via the function
Apply pointer arithmetic in order to address elements of both one-dimensional and multi-dimensional arrays
Use arrays of strings to store lists of strings in one array variable
Control memory usage by dynamically allocating and freeing memory at runtime

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Strengthens an existing foundation for intermediate learners, helping them explore a key concept in programming

Covers foundational concepts that are applicable to any programming language

Emphasizes practical, hands-on coding experience for immediate feedback and reinforcement

Explores advanced pointer usage and pointer arithmetic, building upon previous knowledge in C programming

Introduces memory allocation and management techniques, providing a deeper understanding of resource utilization

Part of a larger professional certificate program, offering a structured path for career advancement in computer engineering

Reviews summary

Well-explained c pointers

According to students, this course on 'C Programming: Pointers and Memory Management' is well-received for its 'great explanations'. Even though these topics can be 'complicated', students felt 'comfortable' with the content by the end of the course. Note that this course is not designed for 'absolute beginners' and requires some prior knowledge of 'C'.

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 Programming: Pointers and Memory Management with these activities:

Pointer Notes Compilation

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Organize and review your notes, assignments, and resources on pointers to reinforce your understanding and prepare for assessments.

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Collect all your notes, assignments, and other resources on pointers.
Organize the materials into a logical structure, such as by topic or type.
Review the materials regularly to refresh your understanding.

Pointers and Memory Management Workshop

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Attend a workshop focused on pointers and memory management to gain hands-on experience and guidance from experts.

Browse courses on Pointers

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Find and register for a workshop on pointers and memory management.
Attend the workshop and actively participate.
Implement what you learned in your own code.

Advanced Pointer Techniques Tutorial

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Follow a tutorial on advanced pointer techniques to gain a deeper understanding of how to use pointers effectively and efficiently.

Browse courses on Pointers

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Find an online tutorial or video on advanced pointer techniques.
Follow the tutorial step-by-step.
Try implementing the techniques in your own code.

Five other activities

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Pointer Practice Problems

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Practice solving coding problems involving pointers to solidify your understanding of pointer arithmetic and memory management.

Browse courses on Pointers

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Review the course materials on pointers and memory management.
Attempt to solve coding problems involving pointers and arrays.
Use a debugger to step through your code and understand how pointers work.

Pointer Programming Contest

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Participate in a coding competition that focuses on pointers to test your skills and expand your knowledge.

Browse courses on Pointers

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Find a coding competition that includes pointer-related challenges.
Practice solving pointer problems.
Participate in the competition and try to solve as many pointer-related challenges as possible.

Pointer Visualizations

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Create visual representations of pointer operations to enhance your understanding of how they work and how memory is allocated and accessed.

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Choose a pointer operation to visualize, such as pointer arithmetic or array access.
Create a diagram or flowchart to illustrate how the operation works.
Share your visualization with others for feedback and discussion.

Pointer-Based Data Structure Implementation

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Implement a data structure using pointers to solidify your understanding of how pointers can be used to manage memory and organize data efficiently.

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Choose a data structure to implement, such as a linked list, binary tree, or graph.
Design the data structure using pointers to manage the relationships between elements.
Implement the data structure in C programming language.
Test and debug your implementation.

Pointer Tutoring

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Volunteer to tutor other students on pointers to strengthen your understanding and help others learn.

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Contact your instructor or a tutoring center to offer your services as a tutor.
Prepare lesson plans and materials to help students understand pointers.
Meet with students regularly to provide guidance and support.

Career center

Learners who complete C Programming: Pointers and Memory Management will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Developer

Software Developers design and build applications, using their expertise in computer programming languages. They are responsible for all aspects of software development, from the initial planning stages to ongoing maintenance.

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Web Developer

The focus of Web Developers is centered on developing, maintaining, and improving websites for use on mobile and desktop devices. They are responsible for both the design and functionality of the website and ensure that the site is user-friendly and accessible.

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Data Analyst

Data Analysts work with large datasets to extract meaningful insights, trends, and patterns. They use their knowledge of statistical techniques and programming languages to analyze data to solve business problems and improve decision-making.

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Database Administrator

Database Administrators ensure that computer databases are running smoothly, efficiently, and according to business needs. They are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and security of the database, as well as the development and implementation of database policies and procedures.

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Network Administrator

Network Administrators design, implement, and maintain computer networks. They are responsible for ensuring that networks are running smoothly, efficiently, and securely, and that data is transmitted reliably and securely.

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Systems Administrator

Systems Administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks. They ensure that systems are running smoothly, efficiently, and securely, and that data is backed up and protected.

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Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write, test, and maintain the code that makes computers work. They use their knowledge of programming languages and software development tools to create applications that meet the needs of users.

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Security Analyst

Security Analysts identify, assess, and mitigate security risks to an organization's information systems. They develop and implement security policies and procedures, and monitor systems for suspicious activity. The skills and knowledge you will gain from this course may be useful in helping you to succeed in this role.

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Quality Assurance Analyst

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Technical Writer

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User Experience Designer

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Product Manager

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Project Manager

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Business Analyst

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Systems Analyst

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