The Best Book for Learning C: Bjarne Stroustrup vs. Stan Lippman’s 'The C Primer'

When it comes to learning the C programming language, choosing the right book can be a daunting task. Many developers find that a combination of a few well-chosen books, hands-on practice, and real-world applications provides the most comprehensive understanding of C. This article will explore the differences between Bjarne Stroustrup’s Programming Principles and Practice Using C and Stan Lippman’s The C Primer, and help you decide which one is the best fit for your learning goals.

Understanding C through Programming

Bjarne Stroustrup, the creator of C , is known for his comprehensive and in-depth approach to teaching programming. In his book Programming Principles and Practice Using C (PPP2), Stroustrup focuses on teaching programming principles rather than just covering the syntactic details of the C language. While the book is titled “Using C ,” it indeed offers a solid introduction to C as well, making it an excellent choice for those who want to learn programming fundamentals with the help of C.

Stroustrup emphasizes the importance of understanding how to program effectively, rather than just learning language-specific features. He believes that a programmer should approach a problem with a clear structure and logic, which is why his book is not just about learning C, but about programming in a broader sense. This makes it a highly effective resource for those who are new to programming and want to learn C while developing their problem-solving skills.

Stan Lippman’s The C Primer

Stan Lippman’s The C Primer is another excellent choice for learning C. The book is well-regarded for its clarity and accessibility, making it especially useful for beginners who are new to both programming and the C language. The C Primer covers the essential features of C in a straightforward manner, providing numerous examples and exercises to help readers understand and apply what they have learned.

In his review, the author suggests that The C Primer worked well for them when they were learning C for the first time. The 3rd edition they used has been praised for its clarity and thoroughness, making it an ideal starting point for C novices. Once they got a handle on the basics, they turned to The C Programming Language (TCPL) by Kernighan and Ritchie as a primary reference. TCPL is a definitive guide to the language, and it serves as a valuable resource for more advanced topics and deeper understanding.

Recommendations for C Novices

For C novices who are also new to programming, the author recommends starting with A Tour of C by Kernighan and Ritchie, followed by Programming Principles and Practice Using C . A Tour of C provides an overview of the C language, which can help novice programmers get a quick grasp of the language’s syntax and features. Once they feel more comfortable with C, they can move on to PPP2, where they can deepen their understanding and learn to apply the language effectively.

However, if you are already familiar with programming but new to C, the review suggests starting with A Tour of C and then progressing to Programming Principles and Practice Using C . This approach allows you to start with a solid understanding of the language and gradually build up your skills, while also learning programming principles that can be applied to C and other languages.

Regardless of which book you choose, it is important to remember that C has no value if you do not know how to program with it. Both Bjarne Stroustrup and Stan Lippman provide valuable insights and practical knowledge, making their books essential resources for anyone looking to learn C or improve their programming skills.

Conclusion

The best book for learning C depends on your prior experience, learning preferences, and specific goals. Whether you choose Bjarne Stroustrup’s Programming Principles and Practice Using C or Stan Lippman’s The C Primer, both books offer unique perspectives on the C language. By following a structured learning path and combining multiple resources, you can achieve a well-rounded understanding of C and develop the skills necessary to become a proficient programmer.