Which Version of C Should You Learn for Industry Standards and Beyond

As of August 2023, the most commonly used version of C in the industry is C17, with many organizations starting to adopt C20. Understanding the differences and benefits of these versions can help you choose the right one for your career and current projects. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you should consider when deciding which C version to learn.

C17 - A Robust and Widely Adopted Version

C17 is a significant milestone in the C programming language, marking an important evolution in its features and capabilities. This version introduced several key enhancements that make it a solid choice for learning and working with existing codebases. Some of the notable features include:

std::optional, std::variant, and std::any: These features greatly improve type handling, providing more powerful and flexible ways to deal with optional values and collections of varied types. Parallel algorithms: C17 leverages the power of modern hardware with its parallel algorithms, making it easier to write efficient concurrent code. Structured bindings: This feature simplifies the process of unpacking tuples and arrays, making the code more readable and concise. Filesystem library: The introduction of a dedicated filesystem library allows for easier file and directory manipulation, enhancing file I/O operations.

Given its wide support and maturity, C17 is a reliable choice for many industry applications. Learning C17 will not only equip you with the necessary skills to handle existing codebases but also provide a solid foundation for understanding more advanced features in future versions.

C20 - Staying Ahead with Modern Features

C20 introduced a range of enhancements that further push the boundaries of the C language. Some of the key features include:

Concepts: This feature improves template programming by enhancing code readability and providing better error messages. Ranges: C20’s range facilities offer a more expressive and efficient way to handle collections, making the code more concise and easier to understand. Coroutines: Coroutines provide a powerful tool for asynchronous programming, allowing for more efficient and flexible task management. Modules: The modular system in C20 improves compilation times and dependency management, making the overall development process more streamlined and efficient.

With its advanced features, C20 is becoming increasingly popular, especially for new projects. Learning C20 can give you a competitive edge in the job market, as it demonstrates your ability to adapt to and utilize modern programming techniques.

Future Trends - C23 and Beyond

The upcoming version, C23, is expected to introduce further improvements and additional libraries. However, the widespread adoption of these features may take some time. As the language continues to evolve, it's important to stay informed about emerging trends and updates.

Practical Considerations and Recommendations

Learn C17: Starting with C17 is a practical choice, as it is still widely prevalent in many industries. This version provides a strong foundation for your learning and will meet most industry requirements.

Explore C20: If you have the opportunity, delving into C20 features will keep you current and make you more competitive in the job market. While C20 may not be fully adopted in all organizations, understanding its features will allow you to handle a broader range of projects.

Stay Updated: Keeping an eye on emerging trends and updates in C standards ensures that you are well-prepared for the evolving landscape of programming languages. Continuous learning and adaptability are key to staying relevant in the industry.

In conclusion, focusing on C17 while becoming familiar with C20 will position you well for most industry requirements. As you grow in your career, you can further explore the latest features and libraries as needed. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a beginner, choosing the right C version will help you achieve your coding goals effectively.

Note: When working in environments with older compilers, it's important to consider compatibility issues. While some features are not available in older versions, you can often write more verbose code or use appropriate libraries to achieve similar functionality.

By understanding the nuances of each version, you can make informed decisions that align with your professional goals and the current industry standards.