C by Example (Cambridge Computer Science Texts)


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At present, C is one of the most popular programming languages. It is not only flexible, but efficient and highly portable, and is now used for writing many different kinds of programs, from compilers and assemblers to spreadsheets and games. Assuming only familiarity with basic programming concepts such as variables and looping, this book covers all aspects of the C language, including a detailed look at file handling and pointers. The text is self-contained and contains a wealth of examples and exercises that test the understanding of the concepts developed in each chapter. Anybody who wishes to come to grips with the art of programming in C will find this a most valuable book.C by Example (Cambridge Computer Science Texts) Review
At first glance you may easily dismiss this book; featuring a rather dull cover; size that is dwarfed by the more "popular" C books - do not be fooled! This is an excellent text for learning about the C language.Admittedly, if you're new to programming in general, then this book may seem a little difficult. For instance the first chapter launches straight into a discussion of C idioms: keywords, variables, operators etc. If these are foreign to you I would recommend you also buy an introductory programming text, then return to this book when you understand these concepts.These assumptions aside, Kalicharan clearly and concisely discusses control structures and arrays, functions, character handling, data types, input/output and more. The concepts of each chapter are thoroughly explained and incorporated into numerous programming examples.Indeed this is one of the strongest points of the book. In particular I liked the way Kalicharan introduces the three programming constructs; conditional execution, looping and iteration first, BEFORE discussing for example, the printf statement like most other C books do - which can be highly confusing to the novice C programmer. (Kalicharan leaves it until chapter 9). Thus a strong grounding in the fundamentals of programming is emphasised from the very start and is a consistent theme revisted throughout the book.Unlike other C books, Kalicharan gives a brilliant discussion of pointers. What is dismissed as "too hard" in other texts is covered with ease and again, numerous examples to illustrate. For this chapter alone, one should buy this book.Following the chapter on pointers is a good introduction to "advanced" data structures, linked lists and binary trees. These are left out of most other C books, bar those dealing with data structures specifically (university texts etc) but it is here that the power of the C language becomes apparent.Topping off the book is a chapter in file handling. Text and binary files are discussed. The range of topics, clarity of expression and *working* examples (I compiled every program in the book without error...) makes this book an essential addition to any C programmer's library. I hope another book from this talented author is on the way soon! (How about Java or C++?) Help other customers find the most helpful reviews� Was this review helpful to you? Yes No Report abuse | PermalinkComment�CommentMost of the consumer Reviews tell that the "C by Example (Cambridge Computer Science Texts)" are high quality item. You can read each testimony from consumers to find out cons and pros from C by Example (Cambridge Computer Science Texts) ...

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