Is it possible to learn good programming during one's off time?

[Chaotic42]

I'm considering learning C++ with the goal of making Windows and DirectX applications. I have the old Deitel and Deitel C book which covers C++, a few "Make games with DirectX" books and a copy of Visual Studio Introductory.

My question is, is it possible to learn good programming on the weekends and in what little free time I have? I need an "at home" project, and this seems right up my alley. I do, however, understand how important rock-solid fundamentals are.

What do you guys think? When I learned C, I had hours each day to devote to it. I'm just want to make specialty apps and Dragon Warrior I type games for friends and such.

Update 6/5:
I think that I may have made a mistake. I bought a C++ book, but it uses something called "UnderC" which I've never heard of. Is this something standard, or is the author trying to get people to use his pointless creation?

 

[kamper]

It sort of depends on what kind of a person you are motivation-wise. I have trouble mastering anything that I'm not required to do because I get interested in other things and move on but if you're the type that can sit down and do the same thing for a long time then I'm sure it's quite possible.

Don't do it in a vacuum though. Find c++ programmers online and read what they have to say, why they like certain parts of the language or certain tools etc. It can really direct you to the most useful stuff quicker than trying everything on your own (which isn't really even possible).

 

[Alaska]

it really depends on the person. I have been told by some people that learned C first that is was simple to learn C++, others have told me that ithey wished they had learned C++ first.

I only learned C++, so I don't know how true this is.

You may want to get a newer book that focuses more on C++ though.

 

[boran]

going from C to C++ the main problem I see will be the OO concepts. the syntax is quite similar so is the behaviour it's just the whole object oriented stuff that you'd have to grasp, which is why I'd also reccomend an OO book or something.

since I have no doubt that with 1 hr/day and 2 weeks you will have grasped C++ to make programs you cannot grasp OO concepts in such a short time (hell, it took me 3 years and I'm still weak when it comes to recognizing patterns)

So you'll be able to program in C++ fast, but you wont be able to program good in C++ fast.

 

[Chaotic42]

What do you all think about Petzold's Windows Programming 5th edition once I pick up the C++ syntax (It shouldn't be that hard).

It's old, but I've heard good things about it.

 

[kamper]

I haven't seen it myself (and probably couldn't judge it for myself if I did) but I've heard it bashed pretty hard. Mind you, that was in the middle of a flamewar on a pro-java forum...

 

[Chaotic42]

I think that I may have made a mistake. I bought a C++ book, but it uses something called "UnderC" which I've never heard of. Is this something standard, or is the author trying to get people to use his pointless creation?