C#: A Beginners Guide
Authors: Herb Schildt
Venue:  (2001)

From the Book:Preface In the past few years, computing has undergone a major paradigm shift away from a landscape dominated by stand-alone systems to an on-line, networked environment. In an age in which for many "the network is the computer," computer languages, operating systems, and development tools have struggled to keep up. In response to the need for a modern programming language that could meet the demands of the interconnected world, C# was invented. C# represents the next step in the evolution of programming languages. It takes the best of the past and incorporates the latest in modern computer language design. For example, C# borrows features from both C++ and Java-two of the world's most important languages. It adds innovations such as delegates and indexers. Because C# utilizes the .NET Framework, code produced by C# is highly portable and allows for mixed-language use. For example, software components created using C# are compatible with code created by other languages as long as it too is targeted for the .NET Framework. The purpose of this book is to teach you the fundamentals of C# programming. It uses a step-by-step approach complete with numerous examples, self-tests, and projects. It assumes no previous programming experience. The book starts with the basics, such as how to compile and run a C# program. It then discusses the keywords, features, and constructs that comprise the C# language. By the time you finish, you will have a firm grasp of the essentials of C# programming. It is important to state at the outset that this book is just a starting point. C# programming involves more than just the keywords and syntax that define the language. It also involves the use of a sophisticated set of libraries called the .NET Framework Class Library. The .NET Framework Class Library is very large and a complete discussion would require a book of its own. Although several of the classes defined by this library are discussed in this book, because of space limitations, most are not. To be a top-notch C# programmer implies mastery of this library, too. After completing this book you will have the knowledge to pursue any and all other aspects of C#. One last point: C# is a new language. Like all new computer languages, C# will go through a period of enhancement and change. You will want to watch for new features and new techniques. Also, don't be surprised if a few things change over time. The history of C# is just beginning. How This Book is Organized This book presents an evenly paced tutorial in which each section builds upon the previous one. It contains 12 modules, each discussing an aspect of C#. This book is unique because it includes several special elements that reinforce what you are learning. Goals Each module begins with a set of goals that tell you what you will be learning. Mastery Check Each module concludes with a Mastery Check, a self-test that lets you test your knowledge. The answers are in the Appendix. 1-Minute Drills At the end of each major section, I-Minute Drills are presented which test your understanding of the key points of the preceding section. The answers to these questions are at the bottom of the page. Ask the Expert Sprinkled throughout the book are special "Ask the Expert" boxes. These contain additional information or interesting commentary about a topic. They use a Question/Answer format. Projects Each Module contains one or more projects that show you how to apply what you are learning. These are real-world examples that you can use as starting points for your own programs. No Previous Programming Experience Required This book assumes no previous programming experience. Thus, if you have never programmed before, you can use this book. Of course, in this day and age, most readers will have at least a little prior programming experience. For many, this previous experience will be in C++ or Java. As you will learn, C# is related to both of these languages. Therefore, if you already know C++ or Java, then you will be able to learn C# easily. Required Software To compile and run the programs in this book you will need Visual Studio.NET 7 (or later) and the .NET Framework must be installed on your computer. The code in this book was tested using Visual Studio.NET 7.0, Beta 2. Don't Forget: Code on the Web Remember, the source code for all of the examples and projects in this book is available free-of-charge on the Web at www.osborne.com. For Further Study C#: A Beginner's Guide is your gateway to the Herb Schildt series of programming books. Here are some others that you will find of interest. To learn more about C#, try C#: The Complete Reference To learn about C++, you will find these books especially helpful. C++: The Complete Reference C++: A Beginner's Guide Teach Yourself C++ C++ from the Ground Up STL Programming from the Ground Up The C/C++ Programming Annotated Archives To learn about Java programming, we recommend the following: Java 2: A Beginner's Guide Java 2: The Complete Reference Java 2: Programmer's Reference To learn about Windows programming we suggest the following Schildt books: Windows 98 Programming from the Ground Up Windows 2000 Programming from the Ground Up MFC Programming from the Ground Up The Windows Programming Annotated Archives if you want to learn about the C language, which is the foundation of all modern . programming, then the following titles will be of interest. C: The Complete Reference Teach Yourself C When you need solid answers, fast, turn to Herbert Schildt, the recognized authority on programming.