Before we can write and execute our first C++ program, we need to understand in more detail how C++ programs get developed. Here is a graphic outlining a simplistic approach:
Step 1: Define the problem that you would like to solve
This is the “what” step, where you figure out what problem you are intending to solve. Coming up with the initial idea for what you would like to program can be the easiest step, or the hardest. But conceptually, it is the simplest. All you need is an idea that can be well defined, and you’re ready for the next step.
Here are a few examples:
- “I want to write a program that will allow me to enter many numbers, then calculates the average.”
- “I want to write a program that generates a 2d maze and lets the user navigate through it. The user wins if they reach the end.”
- “I want to write a program that reads in a file of stock prices and predicts whether the stock will go up or down.”
Step 2: Determine how you are going to solve the problem
This is the “how” step, where you determine how you are going to solve the problem you came up with in step 1. It is also the step that is most neglected in software development. The crux of the issue is that there are many ways to solve a problem -- however, some of these solutions are good and some of them are bad. Too often, a programmer will get an idea, sit down, and immediately start coding a solution. This often generates a solution that falls into the bad category.
Typically, good solutions have the following characteristics:
- They are straightforward (not overly complicated or confusing).
- They are well documented (especially around any assumptions being made or limitations).
- They are built modularly, so parts can be reused or changed later without impacting other parts of the program.
- They can recover gracefully or give useful error messages when something unexpected happens.