Introduction to C++ Programming (TTCP2100)

Introduction to C++ Programming Essentials is a four-day, hands-on course geared for developers who have a foundational grasp of object-oriented (OO) programming. Throughtout the course you’ll explore how C++ can transform your programming skills, enabling you to tackle more complex and performance-intensive projects. Whether it’s system software, game development, or optimizing existing code, the skills acquired in this course will serve as a strategic asset in your professional toolkit.

The course structure is a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical application, with 50% of the time dedicated to hands-on labs. You’ll begin by grasping the essentials of C++ file organization and toolsets, moving on to advanced topics like data handling with pointers and references, and function intricacies including overloading and inline functions. The curriculum also delves into class design, object lifecycle management, and dynamic memory management, equipping you with the skills to write efficient and maintainable code.

Working in a hands-on learning environment, guided by our expert instructor, you’ll learn strategic problem-solving skills and build confidence in applying C++ effectively in your work environment. The labs simulate real-world challenges, preparing you to immediately implement your new skills. As you conclude this course, you’ll leave with a comprehensive understanding of C++ applications, ready to handle complex programming tasks and contribute significantly to your project success.

Course Outline

Please note that this list of topics is based on our standard course offering, evolved from typical industry uses and trends. We will work with you to tune this course and level of coverage to target the skills you need most. Course agenda, topics and labs are subject to adjust during live delivery in response to student skill level, interests and participation.

1. Getting Started
   • Using the development environment
   • C++ file organization and tools
2. Handling Data
   • Primitive Types
   • Initialization and Assignment
   • Const
   • Pointers
   • Constant Pointers
   • References
   • Constant Reference Arguments
   • Scope
3. Functions
   • Function Prototypes and Type Checking
   • Function Overloading
   • Name Resolution
   • Call by Value
   • Call-by-Reference and Reference Types
   • References in Function Return
   • Constant Argument Types
   • Providing Default Arguments
   • Inline Functions
4. Declaring and Defining Classes
   • Components of a Class
   • Class Structure
   • Class Declaration Syntax
   • Member Data
   • Built-in Operations
   • Constructors and Initialization
   • Initialization vs. Assignment
   • Class Type Members
   • Member Functions and Member Accessibility
   • Inline Member Functions
   • Friend Functions
   • Static Members
   • Modifying Access with a Friend Class
5. Creating and Using Objects
   • Creating Automatic Objects
   • Creating Dynamic Objects
   • Calling Object Methods
   • Constructors
   • Initializing Member consts
   • Initializer List Syntax
   • Allocating Resources in Constructor
   • Destructors
   • Scope Resolution Operator ::
   • Using Objects as Arguments
   • Objects as Function Return Values
   • Constant Methods
   • Containment Relationships
6. Controlling Object Creation
   • Object Copying and Copy Constructor
   • Automatic Copy Constructor
7. Dynamic Memory Management
   • Static, Automatic, and Heap Memory
   • Free Store Allocation with new and delete
   • Handling Memory Allocation Errors
8. Strings in C++
   • Character Strings
   • The String Class
   • Operators on Strings
   • Member Functions of the String Class
9. Streaming I/O
   • Streams and the iostream Library
   • Built-in Stream Objects
   • Stream Manipulators
   • Stream Methods
   • Input/Output Operators
   • Character Input
   • String Streams
   • Formatted I/O
   • File Stream I/O
   • Overloading Stream Operators
   • Persistent Objects
10. Templates
    • Purpose of Template Classes
    • Constants in Templates
    • Templates and Inheritance
    • Container Classes
    • Use of Libraries
11. Inheritance
    • Inheritance and Reuse
    • Composition vs. Inheritance
    • Syntax for Public Inheritance
    • Use of Common Pointers
    • Constructors and Initialization
    • Inherited Copy Constructors
    • Destructors and Inheritance
12. Polymorphism in C++
    • Definition of Polymorphism
    • Calling Overridden Methods
    • Upcasting
    • Accessing Overridden Methods
    • Virtual Methods and Dynamic Binding
    • Virtual Destructors
    • Abstract Base Classes and Pure Virtual Methods
13. The Standard Library
    • Survey of the library
    • Containers
    • Algorithms
    • Numerics
    • Date & Time