Thread: Can you create, edit and compile C code with a C++ IDE?

File->New->Project->Visual C++ node->Empty Project
Then when it creates the project:
right click the folder Sources->Add->New Item->Choose C++ File(but rename it to a .c)

Just realized I am using VS, not VC++, but it should be similar.

nerdpirate,

Don't give-up if you can't get it working on the first try! It's usually a pain to download, install, configure, and figure-out a new compiler or IDE. I've used several different compilers, and they've rarely worked on the first-try "out of the box". I'm happy if I can get Hello World working the first day! And, you should always try Hello World (the simplest of all C++ programs) when you are using a compiler/IDE for the first time.

Note - On a Windows system, the operating system will run your program, and then close the window before you have a chance to read "Hello World" on the screen. So, you'll need to add a line or two to the standard Hello World porgram. See this FAQ and this FAQ.

There are 3 ways with Visual Studio.
- After creating a new project (or source file), rename them to a .c extension.
- Goto project options, select C/C++ -> Advanced -> Compile as -> set to C.
- Compile your C code as C++ (it works since C++ is backwards compatible), but you may have to add additional casts and avoid reserved keywords.

Second option also works with single source files, but... Take your pick.