Programming with C++
C++ is a high-level programming language whose raw code is translated into machine language with the use of compilers. Though it is a high-level language, it is not for the faint of heart. Programming in C++ can be complicated, and beginners first looking at C++ code may be intimidated by its hieroglyphic look. The basic syntax and structure used in C++ comes from its predecessor, a language simply called "C," although C++ has many additional features and advantages. One of the key features added to C++ is its object-oriented capabilities.
Object-oriented programming (OOP) developed rapidly in the 1980s and 1990s. Numerous languages began to emerge that took advantage of the technology.
Essentially, when using OOP, small pieces of code are written into objects. Programs written using an object-oriented language consist of a number of these objects. These objects are independent modules combined together to form the whole program.
By creating a program with separate independent objects, programmers are able to take objects and reuse them elsewhere within the current program or in other programs. It's a lot like recycling. Object-oriented languages make all parts of an existing program extendible and reusable. Objects can be used separately or be grouped together differently to create new programs.
Object-oriented languages have gained considerable popularity among programmers, and in many environments, have replaced older, more traditional structured programming techniques. C++ in particular has become one of the most popular languages for the development of large-scale applications used in both Macintosh and Windows environments. Some examples of these large-scale application programs are word processing programs, database programs, image editing programs, and communication programs.
Why Choose C++?
For a computer language to gain popularity, it must be able to meet the demands and expectations of programmers. And these expectations are high. C++ has a proven track record and has gained a loyal following among programmers. It is a versatile language and can be used to create a wide range of applications. C++ has conceivably become the computer language in most demand today. So why choose C++?
Object-Oriented Programming
C++ and its object-oriented capabilities allow the programmer to design applications that are based less on a sequence of code and more towards communication between separate objects. OOP allows the reusability of code in a more logical and productive way. The recycling of code can limit the repetitive rewriting of code prevalent in other languages.
Portability
It is possible to compile the same C++ code for almost any type of computer and operating system with a minimal amount of changes. For this reason, C++ is one of the most used and widely deployed programming languages.
Programs written in C++ can be made up of several source code files that are compiled separately and then linked together. Because these source code files are compiled separately, it is not necessary to recompile the complete application when making a single change-only the required section needs to be recompiled. This provides a very efficient way to modify and maintain C++ programs.
Marketability
C++ has become a key language used for the development of efficient, portable software, ranging from operating systems to databases and numerous business applications. The potential of this powerful language has created the need for C++ programming professionals whose skills can be applied to a broad variety of applications. Skilled C++ programmer's are a hot commodity in the IT industry and are constantly in high demand. Current trends and expected growth indicate that this demand shows no sign of weakening.
Training Options and Resources
Like many other areas of the IT industry, training options and opportunities for those interested in becoming programmers are varied and diverse. This diversity allows you to choose the training method that best suits your learning style and the one that provides you with the necessary training to be competitive in the labor market.
It is important to keep in mind that regardless of which training method you choose, employers will have their own preference with regards to training. Today, employers look more favorably upon someone who has completed training in a college or university. Degrees and diplomas obtained from respected post secondary institutions are a definite asset and provide quality instruction.This instruction, however, does not come cheap. Certifications are also widely sought, but these certifications are more valuable when obtained from a recognized source.
