C — is a general-purpose structured programming language that is powerful, efficient, and compact.

C combines the features of a high-level language with the elements of the assembler and is, thus, close to both man and machine. Programming in C which has recently become popular can be both interesting and fun.

This book is intended to teach the reader how to program in C. It assumes no previous exposure to the language and is suited to both beginners and experienced programmers.

The concept of ‘learning by example’ has been stressed throughout the book. Each major feature of the language is treated in depth followed by a complete program example to illustrate its use. Case studies at the end of the chapters not only describe the common ways C features are put together but also show real-life applications. Wherever necessary, pictorial descriptions of concepts are included to facilitate better understanding. The last chapter presents guidelines for developing efficient, error-free programs in C.

The book contains more than 100 examples and programs. All the programs have been tested using compilers compatible to both UNIX and MS-DOS operating systems and, wherever appropriate, the nature of output has been discussed. These programs also demonstrate the general principles of a good programming style.

The material is largely derived from the lectures that I delivered to the participants of the Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Systems and a number of short courses on C programming. I would like to record my thanks to all the participants for their positive criticism and feedback. My special thanks are due to my colleagues, Mr M L Saikumar, Mr Thomas Jacob and Mr P Sreenivasa Rao for their invaluable assistance in preparing the manuscript. Mr P Sreenivasa Rao is mainly responsible for getting the book in the present form.

Finally, my thanks are due to my wife, Sushila, for her constant encouragement and support throughout the project.

E Balagurusamy