Thread: Is it frowned upon?

  1. #1
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    Is it frowned upon?

    Is it frowned upon to use C++ for Dummies as a basics learning book?

    I was originally going to get C++ Primer Plus (5th Edition) for about $19 but I waited to long and the opportunity was lost, and as I'm sure someone out there knows, being a Lighting Designer for theatrics just doesn't pay enough, or often enough for anything better then $20.

    After I finish C++ for dummies, what should I move onto?

  2. #2
    In the Land of Diddly-Doo g4j31a5's Avatar
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    IMHO, you'll get a lot more from the tutorials here and elsewhere on the internet than C++ For Dummies.
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    I would only frown upon using that book if you have the opportunity to get Accelerated C++, C++ Primer (not C++ Primer Plus), You Can Do It, or any other book C++ book that teaches modern C++ style from the start.

    You'll still learn a lot from C++ for Dummies, but you'll also learn a couple bad habits that you'll need to unlearn. This isn't because it is a for Dummies book, many C++ books do this. However, I think most books are still better than learning from the internet by itself. Do some of both.

    >> After I finish C++ for dummies, what should I move onto?
    If you stick with C++ for Dummies, consider one of the books I mentioned above . You'll learn some better habits and it will reinforce the understanding you got from the Dummies book.

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    Officially An Architect brewbuck's Avatar
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    Quote Originally Posted by HunterCS View Post
    Is it frowned upon to use C++ for Dummies as a basics learning book?

    I was originally going to get C++ Primer Plus (5th Edition) for about $19 but I waited to long and the opportunity was lost, and as I'm sure someone out there knows, being a Lighting Designer for theatrics just doesn't pay enough, or often enough for anything better then $20.

    After I finish C++ for dummies, what should I move onto?
    I'm not sure why anybody would pick a book that says it's "For Dummies."

    In my experience, such books are not only "For Dummies," but "By Dummies" as well.

  5. #5
    Code Goddess Prelude's Avatar
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    Dummies books are typically written by people who are still inexperienced enough to talk like beginners (and thus teach them effectively) yet aren't expert enough to have any business teaching.
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