To get started with C programming, you’ll need a few tools and resources.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Set up a C compiler:
A C compiler is required to compile and run your C programs. One popular option is GCC (GNU Compiler Collection), which is a widely used and freely available compiler. You can download GCC for your specific operating system and follow the installation instructions.
2. Choose a text editor or IDE:
You need a text editor or an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to write your C code. Some popular options include Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, Atom, or Code::Blocks (which is an IDE specifically designed for C and C++ development). Choose the one that suits your preferences and install it.
3. Write your first C program:
Create a new file with a .c extension in your chosen text editor or IDE. For example, you can create a file called hello.c.
In this file, write the following code:
#include <stdio.h>
int main() {
printf("Hello, World!\n");
return 0;
}
This is a simple “Hello, World!” program, which is often the first program you write in any programming language.
4. Save the file:
Save the file with the .c extension in a location of your choice.
5. Compile the program:
Open your command prompt or terminal and navigate to the directory where you saved the hello.c file. Use the gcc command to compile the C program into an executable file. For example, run the following command:
gcc hello.c -o hello
This command tells the compiler (gcc) to compile hello.c and produce an output file called hello.
6. Run the program:
After successful compilation, you can run the program by executing the generated executable file. In the command prompt or terminal, enter the following command:
./hello
The program should run and display the output: “Hello, World!”.