C/C++ Primer

Overview

This class is a short primer that will teach you the basics of the C and C++ language features. C and C++ are compiled programming languages often used in research as well as in industry. Compared to the Python programming language, C is much closer to the hardware which is important if you start to consider lower-level optimizations for performance (essential for High Performance Computing (HPC) applications). Knowing the fundamentals of C and C++ is a valuable skill to have in your backpack.

Outline

The primer class is voluntary and not graded. It will consist of lecture components that teach you the essentials along with embedded hands-on exercises that will take place interactively during class. You are required to bring your laptop and should have some intuition and comfort in using the command line (know how to navigate, create files and directories as well as being able to edit files with an editor or IDE of your choice). You will not be given homework for this class.

The main motivation to offer this primer is to ensure a common ground for students who plan on taking CS205 in spring. C/C++ background will be necessary for CS205. The primer can not provide this in full but aims at refreshing the basics that have been studied some time ago. Of course you are welcome to join if you do not intend to take CS205.

The class consists of 10 lectures at 75 minutes duration. These lectures will be held in the evening to avoid possible conflicts with your schedule.

Participation and Registration

Everybody is welcome to join this class.

Registration

You can register for the class by joining our mailing list. Subscriptions are open now. You can enroll the class by sending an email to

code-primer+subscribe@g.harvard.edu
(subscribe by sending a blank email to this address; use the email address associated with your HarvardID)

You will be asked to confirm your enrollment. Simply reply to the confirmation email with a blank message to complete the subscription.

If you have questions about the class, you can send an email to

code-primer@g.harvard.edu

This is a mailing list, messages will be sent to all subscribed students such that they can benefit from these questions as well. You can send direct questions to this email.

Schedule and Location

Location: SEC LL2.224 SU Family Classroom

Time: 5:30PM - 6:45PM

Date: 09/19 - 09/30 (calendar week 38 and 39)

Meeting times: Lectures are held on each week day Monday to Friday.

Lecture Content

Lectures 1-4 discuss basic concepts that were first introduced in C. Lectures 5-10 focus on C++ specific language features that are not available in C.

Class repository on code.harvard.edu: https://code.harvard.edu/faw093/c_cpp_primer

Lecture 1

Lecture 2

Lecture 3

Lecture 4

Lecture 5

Lecture 6

Lecture 7

Lecture 8

Lecture 9

Lecture 10