C++: An Introduction to Computing (3rd Edition) [Paperback]

Joel Adams (Author), Larry Nyhoff (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0130914266 | ISBN-13: 978-0130914262 | Publication Date: August 24, 2002 | Edition: 3

Object-oriented programming is quickly becoming a standard industry practice, and this book exposes the beginner programmer to object-oriented programming early and consistently. Using a “spiral” approach—Central topics are introduced early and are revisited in increasing detail throughout the book. This “use it, then build it” approach exposes users to concepts underlying basic constructs, reducing the learning curve when the time comes to actually build their own. Provides a gradual introduction to classes and object-oriented programming, especially suited for those with previous programming experience. A CD-ROM with every copy of the book includes all the source code for programs in the book. The authors introduce key ideas behind computing with C++ and object-oriented programming in an intuitive and non-intimidating way. This book not only covers text-based programming, but also graphical/internet programming. A new final chapter on Data Structures has been added which provides an introduction to vectors, linked-lists, stacks, queues, and trees, and how they are used in the Standard Template Library (STL). Object-Centered Design, Introductory Example, Spiral Approach, and Standard Template Library (STL) sections have been retained. Good documentation techniques and habits are modeled in examples. “Part of the Picture” sections in each chapter—several contributed by field experts— introduce readers to discipline of Computer Science-e.g., ethics, history, AI, and architecture. Ex. Ch. 1, Ethics and Computing, and Ch. 6, Artificial Intelligence. Appropriate for beginner to intermediate programmers using C++ (CS1 with C++).

Editorial Reviews

From the Publisher

Introduces key ideas behind object-oriented programming in an intuitive and unintimidating way. C++: An Introduction to Computing gives students a solid introduction to traditional computing--scalar objects, and the concepts of I/O, reusability, control structures, functions and parameter passing, and modular programming--and then proceeds to non-scalar (class) objects, to more fully illustrate the power of C++ objects. The programs in the text have been tested for correctness using two common compilers, Turbo C++ (for DOS or Windows) and GNU C++ (for UNIX). Differences between the compilers are documented extensively-- enabling beginning programmers to solve problems in any of the three most common operating environments. The text uses multiple examples and pragmatic, realistic programs to illustrate topics. Reusable program components and good documentation, for easily maintainable programs, are emphasized--in both the presentation and examples. --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

From the Back Cover

I think it's well written and intelligently presented. It's a good introduction not only to C++ programming, but also to computer science as a whole.

- Larry Herman, UNITEC Institute of Technology

This book has a very large number of exercises, with a large variety of types. It is one the things that attracted me to the text. I am pleased with the quantity and quality of the exercises in this book.

- Cary Laxer, Computer Science, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Joel Adams and Larry Nyhoff address two key goals for first-year computing courses: to give students programming skills in a specific language, and to introduce them to the larger field of computer science. In this third edition of their best-selling book, these experienced educators offer a well-rounded approach to the methodologies and techniques of C++, while presenting students with a general overview of computing as a discipline, allowing them to put their learning into a broader context.

KEY FEATURES

• Provides carefully selected Part of the Picture presentations by computing experts as an overview of the discipline of computer science
• Offers 500 Quick Quiz questions with answers and 800 written exercises to be used for written assignments
• Includes more than 300 programming problems drawn from a wide range of application areas

NEW TO THIS EDITION

• A new chapter on data structures
• Learning objectives listed at the beginning of each chapter
• End-of-chapter summaries with key words and notes to help students identify the main concepts of each chapter
• Case studies featuring problems with complete solutions, including both design and program code
• Special optional OBJECTive Thinking sections to present classes and objects
• Prentice Hall Companion Website at http://www.prenhall.com/adams and authors' website at http://cs.calvin.edu/books/c++/intro/3e/

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 996 pages
• Publisher: Prentice Hall; 3 edition (August 24, 2002)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0130914266
• ISBN-13: 978-0130914262
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.1 x 1.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.2 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #317,024 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #48 in Books > Computers & Technology > Programming > C > Tutorials

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A perfect book to begin : C++ programming., November 22, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: C++: An Introduction to Computing (2nd Edition) (Textbook Binding)

Hi! I am student in the University of Texas at Austin majoring in Computer Science. I am using this book for my C++ progamming class. The book starts with simple things and builds up. Each chapter is nicely divided in subsections. Each and every section has an example and the syntax and format is clearly marked in a different color and this pattern has been consistently followed throughout the book. Each chapter has a section named "Part of the Picture:" which focuses on the application part. This gives me a broader picture about its use and forces me to use C++ in problem solving. Each section has many quick quizes, programming problems which tests my understanding. The authors have consistently followed Object Centered Design and reusable code. One of the authors has included his website where most of the examples are available for many platforms. Students can easily download them and can run them to get a clear picture without wasting time keying into an editor and then compiling it.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing, excellent, a great effort indeed., October 4, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: C++: An Introduction to Computing (2nd Edition) (Textbook Binding)

I am an electrical engineer. I tried many books to learn & understand C++. There is a lot of 24hrs,21 days & unleashed stuff out there but this book is amazing. The best thing about this book is its approach towards computing, how it builds up. When you start reading from cover to cover, everything is the basis of next thing to come. First i was amazed seeing its sequence of topics, as compared to other books on the subject it was completely different and now i know why. Most of the books on C++ usually have classes and advanced topics very early (that's why people complain C++ is complex); but this book gives you a very solid foundation to understand these topics. I never thought C++ was so easy.

6 of 6 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A GREAT book for new C++ programmers!, October 20, 1998

By 

[e-mail] (Kingsville, Texas) - See all my reviews

This review is from: C++: An Introduction to Computing (2nd Edition) (Textbook Binding)

I am a student at Texas A&M University - Kingsville. I have experienced this book to be quite easy to follow. It also goes through each of the steps in the programs and explains as to how and why a particular statement was written. It made it easier for me to understand some fundamental principles of C++. Also, this book made C++ seem a lot simpler than what a beginner normally expects. I must add that even though this book may have all the essentials provided in a very organized way, it is up to you (the reader) to read and understand it.