Visual C++ 5 for Dummies

Whether you've never programmed before or you've just never programmed in C++ before, Visual C++ 5 For Dummies is the ideal how-to reference for you. In this comprehensive guide, you can find easy-to-understand explanations and real-world advice on all that the latest Visual C++ release -- Version 5 -- has to offer. Authors and programming gurus Michael Hyman and Bob Arnson explain in plain English how to Install the Visual C++ package Take advantage of the built-in ClassWizard Think and program in true object-oriented style Use multitasking and multithreading effectively Handle events and exceptions and set and check object properties Work with classes, components, constructors, and destructors

Best of all, Hyman and Arnson show you Visual C++ 5 features in action thanks to the accompanying bonus disk containing sample programs you can easily adapt for your own projects. If you want to write programs but not spend a lot of time steeped in theory and concepts, Visual C++ 5 For Dummies is for you.

While the title of this introduction to C++ is debatable, Visual C++ for Dummies presents a kinder, gentler way to get into C++. This upbeat, down-to-earth tutorial is a great way for novices to get over the initial intimidation of C++ and learn the basics.

The book is organized in four parts. The first part walks you through installing Visual C++ 5 and building some simple programs using the product's wizards. The guide then briefly explains the basics of what's going on when you write, compile, and debug a program. The second part takes a step back and introduces the fundamentals of the C++ language, including a very short overview of object-oriented programming (OOP), data types, control structures, and pointers. The third part introduces OOP in more depth, explaining classes, inheritance, polymorphism, and exception handling. The fourth part compiles tips and common problems you might run into as well as a top ten list of the most important member functions in the Microsoft Foundation Classes (MFC).

Visual C++ for Dummies is not a comprehensive guide to C++, but it is a good way to get your feet wet in this challenging field. If you're looking for a way to get a taste of Visual C++ before you completely devote yourself, give this book a read.