Introduction to C++

C++ is a compiled, statically-typed language that gives you direct control over memory and hardware while still supporting high-level object-oriented design. It powers game engines, operating systems, embedded devices, and performance-critical backend systems.

Why Learn C++?

C++ was created by Bjarne Stroustrup in the early 1980s as an extension of the C language, adding object-oriented features while keeping C's speed and low-level access. Decades later it remains one of the most in-demand languages for systems programming, game development, and high-frequency applications.

Unlike interpreted languages, C++ is compiled directly to machine code, which is why it is consistently among the fastest general-purpose languages available. Learning it also builds a strong mental model of memory, pointers, and how computers actually execute programs — knowledge that transfers to almost every other language.

• Game engines — Unreal Engine and most AAA game studios build on C++.
• Operating systems — parts of Windows, Linux drivers, and macOS internals use C/C++.
• Finance — trading systems where microseconds matter rely on C++.
• Embedded systems — microcontrollers and IoT devices with limited resources.

Your First Program

Every C++ program needs an entry point called main(). The program below prints a greeting to the console using the standard input/output stream library.

#include <iostream>

int main() {
    std::cout << "Hello, World!" << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Common Mistakes

• Forgetting the #include directive for a library you are using, such as <iostream>.
• Missing the semicolon at the end of a statement — C++ requires one after almost every line.
• Forgetting return 0; at the end of main() (most compilers allow it, but it is good practice).
• Confusing std::cout with std::cin — one outputs, the other reads input.