Think Like a Programmer: An Introduction to Creative Problem Solving (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9781593274245)

The real challenge of programming isn't learning a language's syntax--it's learning to creatively solve problems so you can build something great. In this one-of-a-kind text, author V. Anton Spraul breaks down the ways that programmers solve problems and teaches you what other introductory books often ignore: how to Think Like a Programmer. Each chapter tackles a single programming concept, like classes, pointers, and recursion, and open-ended exercises throughout challenge you to apply your knowledge.

You'll also learn how to:
-Split problems into discrete components to make them easier to solve
-Make the most of code reuse with functions, classes, and libraries
-Pick the perfect data structure for a particular job
-Master more advanced programming tools like recursion and dynamic memory
-Organize your thoughts and develop strategies to tackle particular types of problems

Although the book's examples are written in C++, the creative problem-solving concepts they illustrate go beyond any particular language; in fact, they often reach outside the realm of computer science. As the most skillful programmers know, writing great code is a creative art--and the first step in creating your masterpiece is learning to Think Like a Programmer.

Author: V. Anton Spraul
ISBN-10: 1593274246
ISBN-13: 9781593274245
Publisher: No Starch Press
Language: English
Published: 08/12/2012
Pages: 256
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.25lbs
Size: 9.10h x 7.00w x 0.70d

Review Citation(s):
Choice 03/01/2013