Learning C++ as a competent programmer

Question

Possible Duplicate:
What is the best approach for a Java developer to learn C++

I'm sure this is a duplicate question, but I can't find exactly what I'm looking for.

I've been programming for several years, mostly in Java with some .NET experience, but now I'm starting a job using C++. I know just enough of it to be dangerous, and I need to catch up quickly. I'm looking for some good sources (preferably online, but I'll buy a book if I need to) that teach serious C++ for someone who already understands programming. Everything I've seen assumes that you're either migrating from C, or don't know anything about programming.

Answer 1

Have you checked out the C++ Annotations? This is a terse intro to C++ that is intended for "knowledgeable users of C (or any other language using a C-like grammar, like Perl or Java)." It sometimes makes reference to C, but shouldn't require prior C knowledge. (I say "shouldn't" because when I learned C++ from it, I did already know C.)

Answer 2

If you already understand how to program, there is no better book to begin with than Strousroup's "The C++ Programming Language". There are half a dozen other books that I'd highly recommend as well but that one is virtually mandatory (imo) and would be the best place to start.

Answer 3

I find that following tutorials and textbooks is boring. You could try porting one of your Java apps to C++, using sites like this and google to help.

Answer 4

This may be helpful: http://www.cplusplus.com/doc/tutorial/

Though, reading tutorials won't make you a good C++ developer. You'll have to practice. Write some small tools, maybe something that you've written before in another language?

Answer 5

In my opinion, there are few books as good as Scott Meyers's Effective C++ "series".

The books assume that you understand programming, but also C++, but they are still not written in standardese. They will teach you techniques and things you want to / need to know when writing C++.

You might also be interested in Stroustrup's The C++ Programming Language if you need to learn the basics of C++ without having to read a book written for someone that is a completely new to programming.

Effective C++

More Effective C++

Effective STL

The C++ Programming Language

Answer 6

i) Paradigm : OOPS - Well, similar to Java. I would also recommend reading the C K&R book.

ii) Syntax : www.cplusplus.com

iii) Best Practices : Effective C++/ More Effective C++

iv) Specifics : The Stroustrup book

Answer 7

I'm not sure if it fits your bill, but I liked Koenig and Moo's Accelerated C++

Answer 8

Look here: C++ Böök List on Stacköverflöw

If you're serious about this, you will end up buying 5 to 10 books. Don't worry, they have a good resell value.

My personal picks (YMMV):
- The C++ Programming Language (read cover to cover, best twice)
- (more) Effective C++
- C++ Coding Standards: 101 Rules, Guidelines, and Best Practices

If possible, find a mentor among your new co-workers who reviews your code and teaches you.