I know how to learn C++ using Books, but how to enforce the application?

I am pretty interested in C++, so learning C++ by reading textbooks is easy and effective to me. But the problem is, according to my experience, when learning a programming language, some practice and programming appliaction are very helpful.





So I'd like to know that how could I improve my C++ by self-application (that is, without courses). Could I find some materials about these kinds of application? Such as design a small game or small project? Could I only rely on the homework following each chapter?

I know how to learn C++ using Books, but how to enforce the application?
I hope this answer comes across as both encouraging and realistic. On the one hand, it is great that you want to expand your skills, however the fact that you are asking this question probably means that you still have a good way to going in learning C++. Don't take that as criticism. C++ is a very hard language to know really well and it takes a long time.





My first question is whether or not you have done the supplemental exercises in whatever books you have read. They often provide interesting twists on the basic material. However, you are correct in thinking that text books can only take you so far. Exercises tend to focus on one little concept at a time and don't very often provide a large enough problem to apply multiple things you have mastered.





I fear this might be a little advanced but an interesting site that provides advanced problems is http://www.gotw.ca/gotw/ If you can do those then you can feel confident that you really are at the top of the game.





In terms of projects someone suggested you look at something like Sourceforge. That is a good idea but I think you may be at a stage where you might find that frustrating as well as challenging.





IMO, you should start to devise your own little projects. Almost all software is started to solve a problem or annoyance that someone has. Surely you have them too. What bugs you about using your computer on a daily basis? Hard to find a file? Write a search program to go through directories. Annoyed at inconsistencies in the mp3 tags in your songs? Write a program to edit and change the tags. Use your imagination.
Reply:Well, if you have a good, tutorial-driven book, then you should able to learn the basics fairly well from completing the homework and tutorials from the book. If you are looking for some actual projects to assist on, you may want to check out a site like www.sourceforge.net, and see if there is something you can contribute to a project.


Another idea is to look at getting another book on C++ aimed at more experienced programmers, and see if it has "extra credit" type projects in it. Often times, those projects are more intensive. I would suggest looking at some of the titles offerd by publishers like Deitel and Murach's. Good luck.
Reply:just check the cd's that came with most of the books. they provide some projects and all. Ex: Learn C++