The Best C++ Projects for Beginners
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- Many industries that include game development use C++ to create applications.
- C++ projects for beginners feature step-by-step guides.
- People learning C++ benefit from a large community of fluent coders.
Have you ever wanted to learn a new skill, hobby, or language, but you really dislike school? You’re not weird, and you’re not alone. Many beginner programmers enjoy the excitement of learning a new language through projects or games.
It’s true that many aspiring computer programmers learn languages like C++ via a degree in computer science. And just as many are enrolling in the faster and often cheaper option of coding bootcamps. But for those who don’t find either of those options appealing, other opportunities like C++ projects come into play.
C++ projects for beginners usually emphasize the language’s fundamentals. Projects may be as simple (or complex) as creating a game or a search engine. Continue reading for our list of the best C++ projects.
C++ Pros and Cons
Pros
- Coders writing in C++ may use their programs on different operating systems.
- Object-oriented programming makes C++ much easier to use than C.
- C++ gives programmers more control over their computer systems’ memory management.
- A large C++ community exists to provide inexperienced programmers with troubleshooting help.
Cons
- C++ lacks important security features that modern computer networks need to protect against attacks.
- C++ cannot filter out unnecessary data, potentially causing memory issues.
- Programmers cannot use built-in code threads in C++, making writing code slower than in other languages.
- C++’s complexity may make learning difficult for people without computer programming experience.
Coding Bootcamps for You
C++ Projects for Beginners
Car Rental System
Computerized car rental systems let people review available cars and make reservations. This C++ project involves creating a simple program wherein users may review different car models and select one. The program keeps a tally of revenue over a few simulated days, as well.
Creating a car rental system in C++ helps learners become comfortable with variables and code strings. Other benefits of this C++ project for beginners include developing a login page.
Tic-Tac-Toe
Nearly everyone remembers playing tic-tac-toe as children. Although most games end in a draw, the simple rules make it an excellent choice for people researching C++ beginner projects.
Developing a tic-tac-toe game in C++ requires using arrays, functions, and true/false conditions. Programmers first create a game board structure before assigning symbols to different positions. They then input rules, such as ending the game if two players come to a draw.
Stopwatch
Someone programmed the stopwatch present on every mobile phone and many other electronic devices. Creating a stopwatch in C++ emphasizes the same programming fundamentals found in these devices. Stopwatch C++ beginner projects appeal to programmers with some knowledge of the language.
Coders first create a stopwatch display before applying rules, such as defining the length of seconds and minutes. Other steps include programming the starting position at zero. A simple C++ stopwatch should start and stop with the push of a button.
Bookshop Inventory
Bookstore owners and other merchants must keep track of inventory to help customers find what they need and reorder goods. Programmers use switch cases and file-handling techniques to let users review available books’ names, authors, and quantities. Creating a bookshop inventory also covers intermediate concepts, such as letting end users modify data.
Bookshop inventory and similar C++ beginner projects may require some experience in C++. However, online step-by-step guides provide detailed advice.
Casino Number Guessing Game
Probability and chance govern many popular casino games, such as blackjack and roulette. Casino number guessing game C++ projects for beginners let coders examine these principles from a programming perspective.
A casino number guessing game requires programmers to create a simple login wherein users provide their name and how much money they want to gamble. The program then asks users to place bets and guess a number from 1-10. Winners receive their money back plus a bonus.
Digital Piano
Programmers may combine C++ and music with introductory coding skills. They first create a piano keyboard visual and assign computer keys to different notes. Coders write these instructions in a header users see, and pressing the assigned keys makes computer speakers play different sounds.
Creating a digital piano lets programmers explore advanced C++ topics, such as shortening or lengthening sounds with extra keys. This feature makes the digital piano a project that learners may return to throughout their C++ education.
Pacman Game
Pacman took the world by storm when Japanese video game designers introduced it in 1980. Although the game is simple to play, programmers invested months in making it as fun as possible. C++ projects for beginners let learners recreate this classic game in less than a day.
Making a Pacman game in C++ requires programmers to design a game board before defining Pacman and his enemies’ movements. Programmers must also award players points for every dot Pacman eats.
Search Engine
Search engines help people find information and learn new things, including C++. Search engine C++ projects appeal to learners proficient in object-oriented programming and ready to tackle an extended project. Emphasized skills include classes, memory, and struts.
Coders first create a search field before programming input managers and search functionality. Other tasks include linking one or more databases. A successful search engine presents the best results in a few seconds.
Helicopter Game
Helicopter game C++ projects focus on object-oriented programming, basic commands, functions, and syntax. Programmers create a menu displaying different options, such as play and high score. The helicopter game also lets learners practice with simple graphics applications. Programmers use these tools to create landscapes and barriers the helicopter must navigate.
Programmers may apply what they learned in creating a helicopter game in similar C++ beginner projects, such as a tank or bike race game.
Sudoku Game
Some Sudoku puzzles are challenging, even for the most passionate players. Fortunately, creating a difficult puzzle in C++ takes less time than solving one correctly. Creating a Sudoku game in C++ lets learners practice the programming fundamentals that game designers use on the job.
Programmers make a Sudoku game in C++ by creating a game board and defining the game’s rules. They must also limit which values players may input into every space.
Frequently Asked Questions About Beginner C++ Projects
What are some advanced C++ projects?
Programmers who complete C++ projects for beginners move on to advanced ones, such as the 3D bounce ball game, payroll management system, and address book.
Advanced C++ projects help you do more than master in-demand skills. They also reveal how different industries use C++ to create products and run their systems. This knowledge can help you explore different career paths wherein you may use your expertise.
Where can I learn C++?
Options for learning C++ include earning an associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science. Degree-seekers explore many coding languages and their relevance to different career paths. As with certificates and diplomas, you’ll pay tuition and fees.
If you’re on a budget, consider the many C++ online courses or coding bootcamps that you can take online or in person. These courses often cost less than bachelor’s degrees. Sometimes, you can even find free options.
Do employers like C++ projects on resumes?
Yes, especially companies that use C++, such as Adobe, Amazon, Cisco, and Apple. You can include all coding projects in your resume or technical portfolio. Portfolios are a better option for showcasing projects as they can display many projects without distracting from your other experience.
Feature Image: Renata Angerami / E+ / Getty Images
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