The best books to learn C++  programming show the various techniques and terminologies that every aspiring programmer needs to add their knowledge, especially since information technology has a hefty requirement on programming languages and a person’s ability to understand multiple of them.

The problem comes with finding the right C++ programming book for you. Depending on your knowledge, one book can be helpful and another overwhelming. 

That’s why we compiled the best C++ programming resources that can jumpstart your journey into either advancement, intermediate, or basic understanding.

What is C++?

Before we discuss the best book to learn C++, we should define it. C++ is an extension of the traditional C programming language. It has a neat feature called object-oriented programming, which reduces costs by making the code reusable.

As a result, C++ has become an important language used to create high-performing applications while allowing its editors control over the entire system’s memory and data. This makes C++ the world’s most used programming language.

How can Books Help in Learning C++?

Learning the C++ programming language involves different steps. The first step is to gather information on it. One of the best ways to gather information is by checking out the best books on C++. 

Once you have acquired all the knowledge from your C++ books for beginners, evolving your knowledge becomes a natural process. Practising the code, experiencing and solving errors, and even advancing your knowledge to intermediate or advanced C++ programming becomes more seamless.

All it takes is one effective book at the palm of your hand to begin such a journey.

10 Best Books to Learn C++ Programming Language

Listed below are the 10 best C++ programming language books we recommend. Keep in mind that each recommendation’s effectiveness depends on whether you’re learning to improve your skills, beginning C++, or simply reviewing. Check-in on the descriptions of each book to learn more about whether or not they’re the best book for you.

Programming: Principles and Practise Using C++ by Bjarne Stroustrup

One of the best books to learn C++ comes from its creator, Bjarne Stroustrup. Unlike other books, Programming: Principles and Practise Using C++ has the advantage of being written by its founder, making its information beneficial on any level for any C++ enthusiast.

The information includes the basic concepts necessary for understanding C++, its containers, libraries, and the overall concept of object-oriented programming. Given its clear definition and run-through of the concepts needed in the programming language, we recommend this as one of the best books for C++, especially for beginners.

C++ Primer by Stanley B. Lippman, Josée Lajoie, and Barbara E. Moo

Following Stroustrup’s book is a combination of three authors: Stanley B. Lippman, Josee Lajoie, and Barbara E. Moo, with the title C++ Primer. 

The C++ Primer is updated to meet the standards of today’s aspiring programmers and the world’s software development. The three main authors have an authoritative background in 

Computer Science with Lajoie, who is even a member of IBM Canada’s C/C++ compiler development team. This guarantees you the information they provide is factual, effective, modern, and comprehensive.

As one of the best books for learning C++, it takes its readers on a journey to understand the common navigation and functions of the C++ standard library. This encourages aspiring programmers to be able to write programs without wasting too much time and effort.

It’s important to note that the C++ primer has multiple editions, updating with each new piece of information and innovation created. It’s also recommended for intermediate to advanced learners, given the possibly confusing terms and jargon that beginners may not understand.

The C++ Programming Language by Bjarne Stroustrup

We return to Bjarne Stroustrup on this list for the best books to learn C++. For beginners, The C++ Programming Language by Stroustrup creates a better primary understanding of the overall language.

In comparison to Programming: Principles and Practise using C++, this book focuses solely on the process of using C++ instead. Topics related to C++ and not just programming in general are located in its 1,300 pages.

However, to say it’s for beginners could be a stretch. Especially since the text has been updated to C++11 above and no longer teaches previous versions of the language. Download The C++ Programming Language by Bjarne Stroustrup here.

Effective Modern C++ by Scott Meyers

Advancement also requires the best books to learn C++. Free videos online can help you get a grasp of C++. However, if you plan to advance, it’s best to learn more about it through the Effective Modern C++ book by Scott Meyers.

Scott Meyers is a widely-recognised name in software. As the author of The Effective Modern C++,  his specialty in the programming language introduces enthusiasts, aspiring software developers, and students to utilise his practised methods and strategies.

Keep in mind that this book isn’t for beginners at all. Intermediate to advanced learners of the C++ programming language can benefit greatly from this book.

Accelerated C++: Practical Programming by Example by Andrew Koenig and Barbara E. Moo

Barbara E. Moo returns to this list as a respected author alongside Andrew Koenig for Accelerated C++: Practical Programming by Example. As one of the best books to learn C++ programming leaning towards beginner to advanced levels of the trade.

Its goal is to help programmers learn to write faster and more powerful C++ programs with every conceptualised data structure and algorithm needed included to make all variations of C++ data.

Unlike the other books in this article, Accelerated C++ focuses on aiding the programmer’s problem-solving skills and is best used for practising programmers.

Beginning of C++ Programming by Richard Grimes

Richard Grimes, a C++ specialist with an estimated 30 years to his name professionally, published The Beginning of C++ Programming as a lecture book in 2017. Included in this book are all the nitty gritty details that one expects to learn.

As an introduction, it’s one of the best books for learning C++. The reason is that it’s clear and concise, and compiles topics ranging from beginners to intermediate-level programmers. Keep in mind that high-level languages and basic concepts of programming are required for readers planning to learn from this book.

A Tour of C++ by Bjarne Stroustrup

Continuing on our list is Bjarne Stroustrup’s A Tour of C++. The language features of C++ are highlighted by this book and give experienced programmers an overview of all the high-level languages while giving them key insights on how to jumpstart their program.

While the goal of this book isn’t to teach you about the programming features itself, it does teach the reader how C++ programming came to be based on the decisions of its creator and how its creator used it. 

Being able to mimic and understand the decisions Stroustrup made with C++ programming will be possible once languages are understood by the readers. Once able, a programmer can create more efficient ways to manoeuvre C++ programming.

While it is truly one of the best books for learning C++, the advanced properties of language contained in this book require a high level of knowledge of the program.

The C++ Standard Library: A Tutorial and Reference by Nicolai M. Josuttis

There is always a standard for the best books to learn something. The C++ Standard Library: A Tutorial and Reference by Nicolai M. Josuttis can be considered a standard for the programming language.

This is because it documents the functions and designs of each library component used within C++ up to C++11. That means covering all information required for effective coding that can be utilised by programmers. 

Josuttis’ book is a worldwide bestseller in terms of C++ programming. Not only is it used by advanced programmers, but it can also apply to beginners who wish to improve their knowledge of the different components of the programming language.

C++ Templates: The Complete Guide by David Vandevoorde and Nicolai M. Josuttis

Vandevoorde and Josuttis co-wrote C++ Templates: The Complete Guide to aid software developers. These templates are utilised to maintain and create software with efficient speed and little to no errors.

It’s one of the best books for learning C++ best practices, given its tutorial variety, which ranges from basic concepts to language features. Its goal is to teach readers to understand templates, be aware of certain errors within templates, reuse codes effectively, and increase their software’s flexibility and efficiency.

It’s recommended that programmers with a background in C++ utilise this book compared to beginners for advancement.

The Design and Evolution of C++ by Bjarne Stroustrup

Bjarne Stroustrup has an alarming number of the best books on C++, and it’s obvious why. As its creator, Stroustrup manages to define every single requirement, development, and design of the C++ programming language. 

His book, The Design, and Evolution of C++, helps readers understand the critical changes and information to truly understand the decisions that make up C++ without overwhelming readers with technical jargon.

It’s easy to read and gives principles, real-world issues, and objectives that can be utilised with C++ programming language. This book can help prepare advanced readers and beginners alike when it comes to the language.

Furthermore, should there be future updates to C++, these design changes and its evolutionary track won’t alarm its readers. Instead, it helps them understand the changes, both present and future, and prepares them for a more adaptable method.

Conclusion

That’s about all the best books to learn C++ programming we can offer. Hopefully, this encourages you to continue your advancement into programming languages. If you wish to learn more about other programming languages or software development in general, visit Flexisource IT’s resource page to jumpstart your search.

Are you curious about shifting careers or hiring a skilled C++ programmer? Contact us for more details on how we can become your partner in your IT journey today!