Learn C++ from zero

Seven short lessons, in order, each with runnable code and matching practice problems. Start at lesson 1 and you will be writing real programs by the end of the week.

1 Hello, world

Your first program, line by line: what #include, main and cout actually do.

2 Variables and input

int, double, char, bool — declare, print, read with cin, and the four beginner traps.

3 Making decisions

Comparisons, if/else chains, && and ||, and the = vs == trap.

4 Loops

for when you know the count, while when you don't, and the three loop bugs.

5 Arrays

Index from zero, fill and traverse with loops, and the running-maximum pattern.

6 Functions

Parameters, return values, and a first taste of recursion.

7 Pointers

Addresses, & and *, and the two rules that keep you out of trouble.

Articles that pair with these lessons

Finished the course?

Head to the practice section — 59 problems ordered from first steps to real algorithms — or read the modern C++ roadmap to see what comes after the teaching core.