Introduction

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This is the most important chapter in this book! A thorough understanding of fundamental C++ language features such as variable and constant declaration, variable scoping, operator usage, and statement construction, will provide you with the background required to enhance your understanding of the more complicated aspects of the language.

My intent in this chapter is to present to you material that in most C++ courses is either glossed over or skipped entirely because it is assumed the student will learn it along the way. This mode of thinking isn’t entirely faulty, but the unfortunate result from such an approach is the formulation of bad programming habits early in a student’s career. Bad programming habits are difficult to correct and inhibit one’s ability to understanding the more salient, and powerful, features of C++.

Keeping the above in mind, resist the urge to skip over material you think seems too easy. If you must challenge the chapter, proceed to the skill building exercises, suggested projects, or self test question sections to see if you are in fact ready to move along with your studies. You cannot make a mistake by giving yourself extra time to dwell on the material covered in this chapter.

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