Top resources for learning C
Essential books and courses
To help you stay focused on what matters and guide you in your learning journey, I’ve curated a list of my favorite resources for learning C programming.
Just pick one of the resources below and start learning something new today.
In the previous article, we explored the benefits of learning C++ or Rust. If you’re still undecided between C, C++, Rust, or Python, I recommend checking out the article:
🚨 Disclaimer about C and C++
While C and C++ share a common foundation, they are distinct programming languages.
C is a procedural language, optimized for performance and low-level hardware control, giving developers direct access to system resources. On the other hand, C++ builds on C by adding features like object-oriented programming (OOP) with concepts such as classes and inheritance, making it better suited for developing more complex, modular, and maintainable software.
📚 Books to learn C
The C Programming Language, 2nd Edition
by Brian W. Kernighan, Dennis M. Ritchie
Released March 1988
Publisher: Pearson
ISBN: 9780133086249
A classic book written by the creator of the C programming language. It’s often referred to as “K&R” and is considered the definitive guide to C.
The book provides a clear, concise, and practical introduction to the C language, covering everything from basic syntax and data types to more advanced topics like pointers, structures, and file I/O. It’s known for its clarity, examples, and emphasis on efficient programming. Even today, many C programmers still consider K&R an essential reference.
Head First C
by David Griffiths, Dawn Griffiths
Released April 2012
Publisher: O’Reilly
ISBN: 9781449345013
A popular and engaging book for learning the C programming language. It’s known for its unique approach that uses visuals, humor, and hands-on exercises to make the learning process more enjoyable and effective.
The book covers a wide range of C programming concepts, from basics to more advanced topics, making it suitable for beginners. If you’re looking for a fun and effective way to learn C, Head First C is a great choice.
21st Century C, 2nd Edition
by Ben Klemens
Released October 2014
Publisher: O’Reilly
ISBN: 9781491903896
A modern guide to C programming, focusing on best practices and techniques that are relevant to today’s development landscape. It goes beyond the basics, exploring topics like memory management, concurrency, and system programming.
The book is aimed at both beginners and experienced C programmers who want to learn about the language's latest features of C11 and how to use them effectively.
Effective C, 2nd Edition
by Robert C. Seacord
Released October 2024
Publisher: No Starch Press
ISBN: 9781718504127
A comprehensive guide to writing clean, efficient, and maintainable C code. This new edition, which uses the C23 standard, offers valuable insights and best practices for C programmers of all levels. Get the eBook from No Starch Press today!
Modern C, 3rd Edition
by Jens Gustedt
Released October 2024
Publisher: Manning
ISBN: 9781633437777
An essential read for mastering the C23 standard. Whether you’re new or revisiting C, this book covers core concepts, advanced features, and improvements in C23—ideal for writing fast, reliable, portable code, with topics like multi-threading, error handling, and type-generic programming. Get the eBook from Manning today!
C How to Program, 9th Edition
by Paul Deitel, Harvey Deitel
Released March 2021
Publisher: Pearson
ISBN: 9780137398393
A comprehensive introduction to the C programming language. It’s designed to guide beginners through the fundamentals of C, from basic syntax to more advanced topics. This edition is particularly valuable for those wanting to learn C using the modern C11 and C18 standards.
Beej’s Guide to C Programming
A comprehensive and approachable resource for learning the C programming language. Download the ebook for free!
It’s particularly well-known for its clear explanations, practical examples, and focus on real-world applications. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced programmer, this guide can help you master the intricacies of C and write efficient, reliable code.
▶️ Online courses to learn C
CS50's Introduction to Computer Science
by Harvard University - edX
Enroll for free
A great starting point for anyone interested in learning programming and computer science concepts. The course covers a wide range of topics, from basic programming principles to advanced algorithms and data structures.
One of the highlights of CS50 is its emphasis on problem-solving and practical applications. You’ll learn how to think algorithmically and apply your knowledge to real-world problems. The course also provides a strong foundation for further study in computer science.
Introductory C Programming Specialization
by Duke University - Coursera
Enroll for free
A great starting point for those looking to dive into the world of programming. It provides a solid foundation in the C language.
Through hands-on exercises and real-world examples, you’ll learn essential concepts like variables, control flow, functions, and memory management. This specialization is a valuable asset for anyone interested in software development or computational fields.
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