This article outlines a focused C++ programming course that teaches the language from scratch, explains required tools, and prepares you for real-world development tasks. Read on to learn what you’ll achieve, which tools are used, who the course is for and what to expect, plus background on the instructor guiding you through the material.
What you will be able to do after this course
This course is designed so you will be able to develop powerful C++ programs and understand the basics of computer programming, including Object Orientation. By following the step-by-step lessons, you will gain the foundation necessary to apply for C++ jobs with at least a possibility of success. The practical focus ensures that theory leads directly to demonstrable ability.
- Develop powerful programs: Learn language constructs and patterns that enable performant, low-level access to hardware and system resources.
- Job-readiness: Acquire skills that let you apply for C++ roles, giving you a realistic chance in the job market.
- Programming fundamentals: Understand programming basics such as control flow, data structures and object-oriented concepts essential to software development.
Tools, setup and course structure
You can use any C++ IDE and compiler to follow this course; terms are explained within the lessons. All the software you need is free, but you may need to do a little Googling to find explicit install instructions for your platform. The course teaches C++ from scratch, assuming only basic computer knowledge, and progresses step by step so you can build competence gradually.
- IDE and compiler flexibility: Any IDE or compiler works—this keeps the course accessible across platforms and personal preferences.
- Free software: Required tools are free to obtain; installation instructions are not included in the course for every platform, so a short web search may be necessary.
- Progressive learning: Lessons begin with fundamentals and advance toward practical projects, ensuring concepts are internalized before moving forward.
Practical projects and real-world focus
While the course covers fundamental C++ concepts, it also emphasizes practical outcomes. Toward the end of the course you will learn how to create a visually pleasing “particle fire” program. This project incorporates a smattering of basic game development principles and demonstrates how C++ can be used for demanding applications such as high-end desktop games and complex artificial intelligence programs.
- Particle fire project: A hands-on program that showcases rendering and dynamic behavior, tying together language features and simple game mechanics.
- High-performance applications: The course explains why C++ is chosen for applications that must “squeeze the most power from your computer,” emphasizing performance and direct hardware access.
- Game development principles: Basic principles are introduced in context, helping you see how language features support real-time simulation and visual effects.
Who this course is for and what to expect
This course is intended for those who are computer literate and familiar with tasks such as downloading and unzipping files and using the Internet, and who want to learn to program. C++ is one of the more challenging programming languages—so expect to encounter difficulties. You will need a degree of patience and persistence to work through the material and overcome obstacles.
- Target student: Computer-literate learners seeking a practical introduction to C++.
- Challenges: The language can be demanding; anticipate obstacles and be prepared to persist.
- Supportive pacing: The course structure aims to ease learners into complex concepts through gradual steps and hands-on practice.
About the instructor
John Purcell is the Software Development Trainer for this course. He has a 4.5 instructor rating, 203,606 reviews, 2,864,690 students and has authored 21 courses. John worked as a software developer and contractor for over 14 years for companies including CSC, Proquest, SPSS and AT&T in the UK and Netherlands. After that experience he became a full-time private software trainer, spending years in Budapest and Berlin and now living in Italy.
- Industry experience: Over 14 years of software development for notable companies.
- Training focus: Full-time trainer with a strong track record of student engagement and course creation.
- Global background: Professional and personal experience across multiple European cities, bringing diverse perspectives to instruction.
Conclusion
This C++ course equips computer-literate learners with the fundamentals of programming and object orientation, practical experience building optimized programs, and a final project showcasing basic game development. You may use any free IDE and compiler, though platform-specific install instructions might require a quick web search. Expect challenges; with patience and persistence under John Purcell’s guidance, you’ll be prepared to develop powerful C++ applications and pursue C++ job opportunities.
