Article by Ayman Alheraki on January 11 2026 10:35 AM
C++ is one of the most powerful and renowned programming languages, standing strong for decades and proving its worth in various domains, from low-level programming to high-performance applications. However, discussions about how to learn and master C++ never cease, with differing opinions and experiences shaping the debate.
In this article, I will share a collection of opinions and observations gathered from discussions and articles I have written about C++, as well as my personal perspective as a specialist in the field.
Learning C First Some argue that learning C before transitioning to C++ provides a solid foundation in low-level programming and memory management. They believe that understanding C makes learning C++ easier since many core concepts in C++ are rooted in C.
Learning Assembly Language Others recommend gaining a basic understanding of assembly language, which offers deeper insights into critical topics like memory management and pointers. This knowledge equips developers to tackle complex technical challenges with greater confidence.
Mastering C++ Alongside Other Languages Learning C++ alone is not enough. Combining C++ with other languages, such as Python for AI or JavaScript for web development, can enhance a programmer’s skillset and increase employability.
Experimenting with Rust to Strengthen C++ Skills Rust is considered a strong competitor to C++ due to its higher safety standards for memory management. Learning Rust can provide new perspectives on understanding C++, particularly when comparing resource management between the two languages.
Rejecting Comparisons Between C++ and Other Languages Some programmers believe that comparing C++ to any other language, such as Rust, is unreasonable since each language has its own philosophy and goals.
Advocates of Rust Rust enthusiasts claim that the era of C++ is over, citing its safety risks. They argue that Rust has addressed these issues and surpassed C++ with its modern features.
It is essential to emphasize that a programming language is merely a tool, and choosing the right language depends on project requirements and the work environment. A professional programmer is one who can adapt to and deeply understand different tools to solve problems effectively.
Programming domains are diverse, and each domain requires specific tools and languages. For example:
Web development differs from desktop development.
AI programming requires tools that differ from database programming or embedded systems development.
Thus, being overly biased toward one language may limit learning and growth opportunities. A skilled programmer masters their preferred language but remains open to learning others as needed.
While C++ and Rust are nearly designed for the same purposes, each has its strengths. Rust developers achieve much due to modern safety features, but C++ developers have similar capabilities, thanks to the diverse tools and features available to them.
If you are proficient in either language, you can accomplish projects effectively. The key lies not in the language itself but in your ability to use it efficiently to solve programming challenges.
Investing time and effort in mastering a particular programming language does not necessarily make it superior to others. Each language has its use cases, and its evaluation depends on the context.
Personally, while I am a strong advocate of C++, I acknowledge the value of other programming languages, especially for those who leverage their capabilities and advancements.
Remember, programming is a continuous learning journey. The more languages and technologies you learn, the greater your expertise and the broader your professional horizons.