Looking for some programming advice as I have the chance to expand into specialised software applications development for work.

I don't really know too much about programming so was wondering if anyone had any suggestions on short courses I could attend over a week or shorter to pick up the basics for C++?

Just to give you some experience of my computer background, I have dabbled in a little bit of MATLAB (although not coded from scratch - just editing existing applications to suit my needs). In terms of web applications I have self taught myself xhtml and css, and know a little php/sql (although nothing from scratch just a little editing here and there to fit my needs). So as you can see not much knowledge/experience at all.

So any suggestions to get my on the road to being a really good programmer in particular C++?

The best way to learn a new language is to roll your sleeves up and get in there. Sams.net books are quite good for a structured way in. But I always have a mini project as a target.

What OS do you use because that will lead to decisions on what compilers and IDE's. I generally use linux and that comes with GCC and a selection of IDE's. But for widows I tend to use code::blocks for C++ and just mingw for C.

http://www.codeblocks.org/
http://www.bloodshed.net/devcpp.html

P.S. FYI... IDE = Integrated Development Environment

P.P.S C++ is similar to PHP so you should find this pretty easy.

Sadly I am not going to have the time at work to get stuck in, hence it needs to be a structured short course.

The applications development will be for microsoft OS.

I tend to use windows myself as I like my games, I have dabbled with Linux in the past.

Is there a particular reason why you want to learn C++? A lot of windows development now is C# / .Net focussed.

Is there a particular reason why you want to learn C++? A lot of windows development now is C# / .Net focussed.

I would guess because c++ won't stop him from coding for anything other than Windows.

And screw code::blocks - it's a pain - use Eclipse if you need an IDE.