Books???

I am interested in learning C++ (then C#) and Java (then J2ME) for making windows apps professionally.

I just don't know where to get started?? I want a thorough understanding of both languages so that I can make stand-alone windows progs and web apps. There are an extraordinary amount of "teach it yourself" books out there that it gets overwhelming. I already own Visual C++ 6. If you could inform me about additional books besides that one so that I can get into the business professionally I would be VERY grateful. Also, what are some good compilers for both of the languages?Thanks!

For C++, the introductory book "C++: How to Program" by Deitel ( www.deitel.com ) and "The C++ Programming Language" by Stroustrup form the best beginner combination if you are already comfortable with programming basics. You should first master the language itself before going on to program GUIs (windows apps or X-windows or whatever).

OK, well I haven't really done any programming and I would like to get into the business. So I should first learn Visual Basic?? If so could you recommend a book for that?

I would recommend you to take time to grasp programming fundamentals first, not hustle to get into business quickly if you want it that way. And yes, programming skills are not required for business.

For visual basic 6 (since you have Visual C++ 6.0, I would imagine you have Visual Studio, alongwith Visual Basic 6.0 too...unless you bought VC++ separately), "Mastering Visual Basic 6" is a good book. Combine that with msdn and you get a good learning recipe.

Yes, I know I will take time to get the fundamentals first. I was just wondering if I hsould start with VB before movine to C++? How would you recommend I go about this?

The popular perception is that VB has a smoother learning curve than C++, and you can get up and running with VB in virtually no time. I subscribe to this view. But starting with VB as the first development platform may later cause difficulty when adapting to the "real" programming platforms. No harm otherwise.

So are you suggesting that I learn VB first and then Java C++ etc. after I get the programming style down? And how would I go about learning VB.

If you ask me, I'd recommend learning Java first. It's object oriented and has a rather "smooth learning curve". With Java, you can get familiar with programming concepts and then, if you like, move on to C++ and learn its advanced features.

For learning Java, an often recommended (and freely available) book would be Thinking in Java.

To learn C++, perhaps Thinking in C++ might be good, though I haven't read that one yet.