C++ is one of the most popular programming languages, but this fast and powerful language is also notoriously complex. Many useful aspects of C++ remain a mystery to even the most experienced programmers. Too often, programming books concentrate more on the syntax of the language and less on its real-world applications. This code-intensive, practical guide changes that by teaching all facets of C++ development, including effective application design, testing, and debugging. You'll learn simple, powerful techniques used by C++ professionals, little-known features that will make your life easier, and reusable coding patterns that will bring your basic C++ skills to the professional level.

After a quick review of C++ fundamentals, the authors launch into teaching you how to use C++ in your daily work. They show you various programming methodologies and good programming style, as well as ways to increase the quality of your code and improve your programming efficiency. You'll discover how to write cross-language and cross-platform code, how to perform unit testing and regression testing, and how to use the standard C++ library. By the end of the book you'll be armed with a wealth of reusable coding patterns that can be applied to all your projects.

You will be able to master the C++ language with all its idiosyncrasies, and take advantage of its powerful capabilities for large-scale software development.

What you will learn from this book

• Different programming methodologies and high-quality programming styles
• Ways to take advantage of C++ for large-scale software development
• Methods to ensure bug-free code
• An appreciation for object-oriented design
• How to use libraries and patterns to write better code- with less work
• The best ways to manage memory in C++
• Techniques for input and output

Who this book is for

This book is for programmers and developers who want to take their C++ skills to the professional level. Some knowledge of basic C++ or significant experience with C and/or Java is required, as well as a solid foundation in programming fundamentals and familiarity with a compiler.

• Introduction
• A Crash Course in C++
• Designing Professional C++ Programs
• Designing with Objects
• Designing with Libraries and Patterns
• Designing for Reuse
• Maximizing Software-Engineering Methods
• Coding with Style
• Gaining Proficiency with Classes and Objects Mastering Classes and Objects
• Discovering Inheritance Techniques
• Writing Generic Code with Templates
• Understanding C++ Quirks and Oddities
• Effective Memory Management
• Demystifying C++ I/O
• Handling Errors
• Overloading C++ Operators
• Writing Efficient C++
• Developing Cross-Platform and Cross-Language Applications
• Becoming Adept at Testing
• Conquering Debugging
• Delving into the STL: Containers and Iterators
• Mastering STL Algorithms and Function Objects
• Customizing and Extending the STL
• Exploring Distributed Objects
• Incorporating Techniques and Frameworks
• Applying Design Patterns
• Appendix A: C++ Interviews
• Appendix B: Annotated
• Bibliography
• Index