The web has all kinds of neat tutorials, step programs and example portfolios for learning the C/C++/C# suite of programming languages, but for C training, it's sometimes helpful to really start out slow. So what can beginners do to try out the "bunny slope" when tackling these technically complex programming options?

The web is a great resource for starting out with C/C++/C# education and training in ways that won't tax the lay person's mind. Businesses can do well to introduce these kinds of resources to anyone considering taking on the additional learning curve for these languages. Beginners can take advantage of a number of web resources in order to find solutions for situations like the following:

1. A business is shifting over production of applications, data handlers, or other tools from another programming language to C or a C based language, and workers need to get skilled in the change.

2. More and more workers are handling the "back end" of a project that was written in C or a related language.

3. A worker needs to learn C++ or a little about C or a related language to read code in order to do technical writing, communicate with engineers, or bring a technical process to a non-technical audience.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find specific 'start up' tutorials for learning basic syntax for C training

One step for beginners looking to master a C type language is beginning with the most simple identifiers that are used in the language. Syntax learners using C or C++ tutorial options can mostly go at their own paces, building on existing knowledge and picking up more as they go along.

I recommend: Find intro to C and C++ with quiz-based modules that will take you through the basic syntax of the language set at CProgramming.com. Find more on variables, data types, constants, operators and more at CPlusPlus.

Look for code samples for seeing how C training can be generally used in projects

Another web resource is code samples: beginners can use these to get an eye-level view of coding in C: this enables those with little or no knowledge to see how expert programmers lay out their code modules.

I recommend: The examples at Code Sampler include specifics on defined classes and friend classes for the C language set, and more for working in a basic way with the "class" part of an object oriented language (for C# education or related goals). Find more beginner's code samples for C and C++ at more independent sites like Blueberry Graphics, a Spyro Gumas project online.

Locate other info for seeing how C training is worked into business uses

Another good beginning step, besides C# training or C tutorials, is to look not just at HOW experts use C and other C languages, but WHAT they use them for. For this, look to the 'memoirs' of coders and programmers to find out what kinds of projects 'take' a 'C-type' approach. Work this kind of knowledge in for C/C++/C# education and training for beginners.

I recommend: Find some basic insight on using C or a C based language for projects at Developer.com. Find more independent thoughts on learning C set languages (like C#) at blog sites such as this one: the Ramblings of a Programmer. Use blogs and other sources for learning how others have implemented C, C++ and C# before embarking on the quest to master these elusive skills.

C/C++/C# education and training gives you the tools that you need for a successful career. Most people realize that computer programmers are in demand. When someone goes through C education, they put themselves in a better position for career success.

C, C++ and C# are some of the most popular programming languages, so it's worth your while to study them and get the C training you need to be successful.

Some great reasons to pursue C/C++/C# education and training are:

1. To train for a stable career. The technology sector is growing and it seems that companies always need good computer programmers. This means that young students would do well to get a C, C++ or C# education.

2. To expand your programming knowledge. If you are already able to program in another language, you would do well to add C, C++ or C# to your repertoire. With your background, you may even be able to get by with just a C++ tutorial.

3. To learn new techniques. Even if you know the basics, a C# training program can teach you new techniques that will make you more attractive to employers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use C programming tutorials to learn the basics or refresh your memory

People who have some programming skills may be able to learn how to program in C, C++ or C# using tutorials. It's also helpful to keep these around in case you need to look something up.

I recommend: Cprogramming.com lists several tutorials to help you get started programming in C. They'll teach you the basics as well as advanced programming techniques. Mark Burgess has written a no-frills C Programming Tutorial that is great for those without much experience.

Take a class to learn C++

If you get confused by all the technical jargon in tutorials, you are not alone. Many people prefer to learn how to program in a classroom, from a live person. This allows you to ask questions and receive feedback.

I recommend: Look for online C training at the e-Learning Center. Its program is affordable and makes C easy to learn. You can also take a course through Geno Techs.

Get C training that leads to certification

Certification shows potential employers that you have the training necessary to do a good job. If you're going to take the time to learn a programming language, it only makes sense that you should aim to get the certificate that proves it.

I recommend: Bellevue Community College offers a certificate of accomplishment in Introductory C++ programming. The Milwaukee School of Engineering also offers a C++ certification program.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you don't have experience, create a portfolio of programs that you made using C, C++ or C#. This will show potential employers that you do have C training.

In today's tech market, the C suite of languages represents a very conventional part of the coding used to make the whole range of business applications function. Programmers often use C, C#, C+, and C++ for all kinds of projects, and collaborate on larger projects where C provides a basis for complex automation. When a beginner wants to get into C, it's good to learn some of the main aspects of C education and training. Knowing key terms that describe certain skills will help you get started.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

C syntax

Syntax is the basic components of the C and C-based language set. For learning C, C+ or C#, this is a basic first step. The beginning of C education and training is figuring out the different terminology for variables, constants, operators and other constructs.

I recommend: Find a detailed C syntax refence for C languages at CProgramming.com.

C code samples

C code samples are sets of code that demonstrate to beginners just how C programming works. Basic code samples can be powerful tools for any level of education in C or a C language. They also show how coding conventions have developed within the C coding community.

I recommend: See examples of C code samples at HappyCodings.

C and C# tutorials

Tutorials are another common way that beginners get access to knowledge about coding and programming in C-based languages.

I recommend: See examples of C# tutorials and more info at this Microsoft developer's page.

C certification

Programmers who want to get in-depth with C, C+ or C# will often obtain C certification. Passing the C language certification exam that gives the programmer a useful programming credential.

I recommend: ExpertRating offers an online C and C++ certification test. You can also get a C++ certification through a distance program offered by Bellevue College. Before you invest the time and money in a certification course, make sure the certification administrator is recongnized throughout the industry.

Object-oriented programming, or OOP

Object-oriented programming, sometimes abbreviated OOP, comes into play often when talking about C and related languages. OOP is the practice of using languages around 'object' frameworks rather than in 'free data' designs.

I recommend: Get a definition of object oriented programming at WhatIs. For more on object-oriented programming in C, check out this EventHelix page.

C compiler

Like other languages, C uses a compiler to translate human language into machine language. Aside from syntax and coding, the beginner in C languages should learn about how the C compiler works.

I recommend: Find out more about the C compiler at HowStuffWorks.