C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries

Learn how to use professional tools and libraries to write and build C programs within the Linux operating system.

This seventh and final course in the C Programming with Linux Specialization will allow you to develop and use your C code within the Linux operating system. Using libraries in C is a fundamental concept when it comes to sharing code with others. In addition to compiling and linking, you will also learn how to pass arguments to an executable program.

As you embark on your future career as a programmer, you will be able to continue your coding adventures with professional coding environments used by C programmers around the world.

Why learn C and not another programming language? Did you know that smartphones, your car’s navigation system, robots, drones, trains, and almost all electronic devices have some C-code running under the hood? C is used in any circumstance where speed and flexibility are important, such as in embedded systems or high-performance computing.

At the end of this course, you will reach the last milestone in the C Programming with Linux Specialization, unlocking the door to a career in computer engineering.

Your job Outlook:

- Programmers, developers, engineers, managers, and related industries within scientific computing and data science;

- Embedded systems such as transportation, utility networks, and aerospace;

- Robotics industry and manufacturing;

- IoT (Internet of Things) used in smart homes, automation, and wearables.

- IEEE, the world’s largest technical professional organization for the advancement of technology, ranks C as third of the top programming languages of 2021 in demand by employers. (Source: IEEE Spectrum)

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

What's inside

Syllabus

Welcome

Week 1: Libraries in C

By the end of Week 1, you will be able to effectively declare and define functions, as well as use external libraries (e.g. math, compression, image).

Week 2: Modularization Libraries and Makefiles

By the end of Week 2, you will be able to use preprocessor directives, build an application from multiple source files, and automate the building process using Makefiles.

Week 3: File operations in C

By the end of Week 3, you will be able to pass and use arguments to the main function, read and use a file, write to a file, and install a profession C compiler.

Concluding the course

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Specifically designed for learners who want to write C programs within the Linux operating system

Led by Petra Bonfert-Taylor and Rémi Sharrock, experts in the field

Teaches industry-standard tools, protocols, and strategies

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: Using Linux Tools and Libraries - 7 with these activities:

Review C programming fundamentals

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Performing practice drills in C programming will help you enhance your understanding of crucial fundamentals, making it simpler to grasp more advanced concepts.

Browse courses on C Programming

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Revise variables, data types, and operators.
Practice writing simple C programs involving input and output.

Review C basics

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Refresh the basics of the C programming language to build upon them later in the course.

Browse courses on C

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Go over the basics of data types, variables, and operators.
Review control flow statements such as if-else and loops.

Complete coding challenges in C

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Regular practice in solving coding challenges will boost your proficiency in writing and debugging C code, strengthening your overall grasp of the language.

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Identify online coding platforms or resources with C programming challenges.
Attempt to solve challenges of varying difficulty levels.
Debug and optimize your solutions.

Five other activities

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Explore C programming tutorials and documentation

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Consulting well-written tutorials and documentation can provide valuable insights and explanations, enhancing your comprehension of C programming concepts.

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Identify reputable sources for C programming tutorials.
Review tutorials on specific topics you need to reinforce.
Refer to official C programming documentation for in-depth information.

Join a C programming study group

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Engaging with peers in a study group can foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and support, enhancing your understanding of C programming.

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Find or create a study group with other students enrolled in a C programming course.
Establish regular meeting times to discuss course material and work on problems together.

Participate in study sessions

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Discuss and work through C programming concepts with peers to enhance learning.

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Find a study partner or group with similar C programming experience.
Schedule regular study sessions to review course material.
Take turns explaining concepts, solving problems, and providing feedback.

Develop a small C program project

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Building a project from scratch will allow you to apply your C programming skills in a practical setting, solidifying your understanding and boosting your confidence.

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Brainstorm and select a project idea that interests you.
Design the program's structure, including functions and data structures.
Write and test the C code for your project.
Document your code and submit it for review.

Seek guidance from C programmers

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Connect with experienced C programmers to gain insights and receive personalized guidance.

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Attend industry events or online forums to meet C programmers.
Reach out to C programmers on LinkedIn or other networking platforms.
Ask for advice, mentorship, or guidance on C programming topics.

Career center

Learners who complete C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries - 7 will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Software Engineer

As a Software Engineer, you will design, code, and test software, from embedded systems to high-performance computing, using C. The C programming language underpins everything from healthcare, telecommunications, and robotics to defense, automotive, and aviation. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, enabling you to develop and use your C code within the Linux operating system. You will learn how to use professional tools and libraries, compile and link, and pass arguments to an executable program, which are all essential skills for a successful career as a Software Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Embedded Systems Engineer

As an Embedded Systems Engineer, you will design and develop complex embedded systems for applications where speed and flexibility are important, such as self-driving cars, aerospace, and medical devices. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which is essential for success in this field. You will learn how to use professional tools and libraries, compile and link, and pass arguments to an executable program, which are all essential skills for a successful career as an Embedded Systems Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Embedded Systems Engineer

Robotics Engineer

As a Robotics Engineer, you will design, build, and test robots for various applications, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and space exploration. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which is essential for success in this field. You will learn how to use professional tools and libraries, compile and link, and pass arguments to an executable program, which are all essential skills for a successful career as a Robotics Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer

Data Scientist

As a Data Scientist, you will analyze and interpret large datasets, extract insights, and develop predictive models to help businesses make better decisions. While C is not the primary language for Data Science, it is often used in high-performance computing and embedded systems, which are important areas of Data Science. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Data Scientist.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Computer Scientist

As a Computer Scientist, you will research and develop new computing technologies, from algorithms and data structures to programming languages and operating systems. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. It is essential for understanding the foundations of computer science and developing new computing technologies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Systems Analyst

As a Systems Analyst, you will design, develop, and implement computer systems solutions for businesses and organizations. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which is essential for success in this field. You will learn how to use professional tools and libraries, compile and link, and pass arguments to an executable program, which are all essential skills for a successful career as a Systems Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Systems Analyst

Software Developer

As a Software Developer, you will design, code, and test software applications. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which is essential for success in this field. You will learn how to use professional tools and libraries, compile and link, and pass arguments to an executable program, which are all essential skills for a successful career as a Software Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Network Engineer

As a Network Engineer, you will design, implement, and maintain computer networks. While C is not the primary language for Network Engineering, it is often used in embedded systems and networking hardware. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Network Engineer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Information Security Analyst

As an Information Security Analyst, you will protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. C programming is often used in cybersecurity and embedded systems. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as an Information Security Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Computer Programmer

As a Computer Programmer, you will write and maintain computer programs. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which is one of the most widely used programming languages in the world. It is essential for success in a career as a Computer Programmer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Web Developer

As a Web Developer, you will design, develop, and maintain websites and web applications. While C is not the primary language for Web Development, it is often used in backend development and embedded systems. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Web Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Database Administrator

As a Database Administrator, you will manage and maintain databases. While C is not the primary language for Database Administration, it is often used in embedded systems and database systems. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Database Administrator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Technical Writer

As a Technical Writer, you will write and maintain technical documentation, such as user manuals, technical reports, and white papers. While C is not the primary language for Technical Writing, it is often used in embedded systems and software documentation. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Technical Writer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer

Game Developer

As a Game Developer, you will design, develop, and maintain video games. While C is not the primary language for Game Development, it is often used in game engines and embedded systems. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Game Developer.

See salaries and explore the career path for Game Developer

Quality Assurance Analyst

As a Quality Assurance Analyst, you will test and evaluate software products to ensure that they meet quality standards. While C is not the primary language for Quality Assurance, it is often used in embedded systems and software testing. This course in C Programming: Using Linux Tools and Libraries can help you build a foundation in C programming, which may be helpful for your career as a Quality Assurance Analyst.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quality Assurance Analyst