When comparing Learn C The Hard Way vs C++ Primer, the Slant community recommends C++ Primer for most people. In the question“What are the best resources to learn C/C++?” C++ Primer is ranked 1st while Learn C The Hard Way is ranked 2nd. The most important reason people chose C++ Primer is:
This book is excellent for people who have basic knowledge of programming concepts or have read an introductory book on programming or C++.
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Pros
Pro Designed for people new to C
The book covers very basics such as C syntax, idioms, compilations, make files, linkers and how to find and prevent bugs.
Pro Very practical and hands on
Contains many exercises that will require getting hands dirty very early on.
Pro Can be combined with a video course
A complimentary course is available on Udemy. The course costs $29.
Pro Free
The book is available online for free.
Pro Great for people who know just the very basics of programming
This book is excellent for people who have basic knowledge of programming concepts or have read an introductory book on programming or C++.
Pro Explains C++11 extension well
5th edition adds information on C++11 additions and integrates it throughout the book so it's not just an appendix with new stuff.
Pro Covers the core of the language without omitting anything critical
The book describes core concepts of C++ programming in-depth. It covers various nuances that would otherwise be easy to misinterpret.
Cons
Con Has errors
Includes technical errors throughout the book.
Con Complaints about the Kindle version
To quote a reader: "The book itself is great. However, the formatting for the Kindle is messed up".