Customer Reviews

Borland C++ Builder for Dummies

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This book falls into the category of "rush to market" to take advantage of the heavy advertising and good publicity associated with the Borland C++ Builder software. As such, it is a superficial treatise on the Windows 95 programming concept in that it offers only a step-by-step method of moving a visual component from a component bar to a form window, followed by a click or two on a component pallette and the entry of a trivial piece of real code. One ends up with a real window after the compilation step, but no concept of the logic of what they did or how they could add something useful to this trivia. The situation deteriorates when the topics turn to Quick Report generation and "Advanced" programming concepts. The Quick Report presentation was essentially the Qrmanual.doc (supplied as part of the Builder package by QuSoft AS ) stripped of most of its logic content. Some of the table presentation was lifted from Qrmanual.doc with so few words changed that there should have been an acknowledgment to QuSoft AS !! The "Advanced" programming pages presented only a very basic, broad description of some of the C++ operators, with no description of what they really do or how they tie together. As with most computer books rushed to print, there were several typographical errors ( leading to compiler errors ); one associated with a pointer syntax error, another with a missing label component in one piece of code devoted to a timer window. There was even an incorrect syntax presentation for the unary decrement operator in one of the tables associated with learning C++ !! Some of the "for Dummies" series of books have served their readers well in easing the transition to a new piece of software developed for the public at large. However, the Borland Builder program is software aimed at Windows 95 Application Software Development by people familiar with the Windows 95 messaging system, the Borland OWL and advanced C++ programming concepts. The subject book does nothing to help the beginning reader achieve this familiarity, and trivializes the knowledge base of those people who have already gained it.

As new C++ developer in Borland environment, I have checked all the books on C++ Builder. This book is the best one who is new in developing application using C++ Builder. I will recommend this book to those who are new and want to learn all fundamental aspects.

I have been an amateur programmer for 27 years, and a dummy for longer that. I have studied Basis, FORTRAN, Pascal,and dozens of other computer languages including C++, and Borland C++ Builder for Dummies is as good an introductory book for C++ as I have read and is very useful even after the dozens of C++ books I have read. The book is in perfect condition and not a pen or paper bookmark. Great product and great Amazon store.