Mastering C++: From Fundamentals to Advanced Programming

Chapter 2: Introduction to C++ and Setup

🔹 1. What is C++?

C++ is a general-purpose, high-performance programming language that blends the procedural programming of C with powerful object-oriented features. Created by Bjarne Stroustrup in the early 1980s, C++ has become a core language for building:

• Operating systems
• Game engines
• Embedded software
• Performance-critical applications

It supports multiple paradigms: procedural, object-oriented, and generic programming — making it versatile and efficient.

🔹 2. Why Learn C++?

✅ C++ remains a favorite in industries like:

• Gaming (Unreal Engine)
• Finance (High-frequency trading systems)
• Robotics and embedded systems
• Competitive programming

🔹 3. Setting Up the C++ Environment

🖥️ On Windows

Option 1: Code::Blocks IDE

1. Download Code::Blocks with MinGW from codeblocks.org
2. Install and open the IDE
3. Go to File → New → Project → Console Application → C++

Option 2: Visual Studio Code + MinGW

1. Install VS Code and MinGW
2. Add g++ path to environment variables
3. Install the "C/C++" extension in VS Code

🖥️ On macOS

1. Open Terminal
2. Install Xcode command-line tools:

xcode-select --install

3. Use g++ to compile files.

🐧 On Linux

Most distros already have g++. If not, install it:

sudo apt update

sudo apt install g++

🔹 4. Your First C++ Program

Let’s write the classic Hello, World!

#include <iostream>

using namespace std;

int main() {

    cout << "Hello, World!" << endl;

    return 0;

}

🔍 Explanation:

🔹 5. Compiling and Running C++ Code

🧾 Command Line (Windows/Linux/macOS):

g++ hello.cpp -o hello

./hello

🔁 Output:

Hello, World!

🔹 6. Key Concepts Covered in Chapter 1