Free course · Programming & Development
C++ Starter
A free introduction to C++: compiling a first program, control flow and functions, arrays and strings, pointers and references, and simple classes.
Free · self-study · no certificate
About 6 hours
2 modules · 5 lessons
What you will be able to do
- Compile and run a C++ program
- Write functions with loops and conditions
- Explain what a pointer and a reference are and use a simple class
Who it's for
- Beginners interested in systems, games or engineering software
- Students meeting C++ in a school or university course
Before you start
Basic computer use. A C++ compiler (such as g++) and an editor, or a free online compiler.
Module 1 · about 120 minutes
C++ Foundations
Setup, control flow, functions, arrays and strings.
- Compile and run programs
- Use functions, arrays and strings
Module 2 · about 80 minutes
Memory and Objects
Pointers, references and classes, then a complete problem in C++.
- Use references and pointers safely
- Write a small class and use it
Further learning
- Learn C++ (learncpp.com, free tutorials) — A free, structured tutorial on modern C++, from the basics to classes and templates.
- Get Started with Standard C++ (isocpp.org) — Where to get a free compiler, plus recommended books and references from the C++ standards community.
- C++ language reference (cppreference.com) — The standard reference for language rules once you know the basics.
Continue with a full program
- C++ — Learn C++ for performance-critical systems, using modern C++ practices — memory safety, STL, and clean structure.
- Java — Learn Java for enterprise applications, Android development, and backend systems, using modern Java practices.
- Python — Practical Python programming for automation, data work and back-end development — from first scripts to a deployed, tested application.
Want the full C++ program?
This free course is an introduction. The full program is taught live by an instructor, with practical assignments, assessments, projects and a certificate.
See the C++ program