C Language – Programming Basics (C1)

Programming, C, C++

Created in the early 1970s by Dennis Ritchie at Bell Labs, C was built as a low-level, portable and efficient language to implement operating systems such as Unix. Interpreted languages like Python also rely on C for core implementations.

This course is updated to the C23 standard and offers a practical, platform-agnostic introduction to C. You will learn the toolchain, the standard library, and core concepts used in embedded and operating system development.

THIS TRAINING COURSE WILL HELP YOU:

  • Master C program syntax and program structure
  • Get familiar with the toolchain and standard library
  • Add C to your programming skillset

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

  • Beginner programmers with general coding experience
  • Aspiring embedded and firmware developers
  • Students and anyone curious about software origins

COURSE LOCATION AND AVAILABLE DATES



Need this course in English?

Public courses are usually delivered in Czech, but this course is also available in English. We can arrange private training for your team online, at your premises or in our classrooms, and tailor the content to your needs.

For groups of around 4 or more participants, private training can already be comparable in price to booking individual places on a public course. Send us your requirements and we’ll recommend the best format and provide an exact quote.

Request training in English

Course content:

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  • Introduction to the C programming language
    1. Language and library according to C23 and POSIX.1-2024
    2. Historical perspective on C and UNIX
    3. Modern industrial applications
  • Working with the toolchain
    1. Building programs
    2. Compiler and linker options
    3. Debugging compilation errors
  • Basic input and output
    1. Formatted output with printf
    2. Streams for input and output
    3. Reading with scanf and fgets
  • Variables and expressions
    1. Local variables and constants
    2. Numeric types and operations
    3. Expressions and operators
  • Structured data types
    1. Fixed-size arrays
    2. Simple structs
    3. Variable initialization
  • Structured programming
    1. Loops and branching (while, if)
    2. Iterating structures (for)
    3. Loop control (break, continue)
  • Splitting programs into functions
    1. Defining and calling functions
    2. Arguments and return values
    3. Passing structured data
  • Enumerations and branching
    1. Branching by enum value (switch)
    2. Anonymous enums and constants
    3. Using enums for flags
  • Basic error handling
    1. Checking return values
    2. Return codes and error codes
    3. Different responses to errors
  • Arrays and buffers
    1. Calculating static array size (sizeof)
    2. Using enums to index arrays
    3. Static arrays terminated by a sentinel
  • Practical array uses
    1. Text strings as static arrays
    2. Handling command-line arguments
    3. Arrays of structs and multidimensional arrays
  • Working with text
    1. C strings (char arrays)
    2. Encoding and text files
    3. String operations and standard functions
  • Binary data
    1. Structured data and offsets
    2. Reading and writing binary files
    3. Representing packets and messages
  • Memory allocation
    1. Compile-time reserved memory (static)
    2. Stack-allocated variables
    3. Dynamic allocation with malloc (heap)
  • Pointers and arrays
    1. Providing buffers for data
    2. Passing and storing pointers
    3. Lifetime of objects and pointers
  • Abstract data types
    1. Structs for related data
    2. A set of methods implemented as functions
    3. Documented as a single abstraction
  • Integration with the operating system (POSIX)
    1. Environment variables and command-line arguments
    2. Working with files and file systems
    3. Timing and time-related functions
  • Bonus: Libraries and interfaces
    1. Writing reusable code
    2. Maintaining a simple interface
    3. Working with header files
Prerequisites:
Experience programming in another language.
Recommended previous course:
Introduction to Programming (PRG)
Recommended follow-up course:
C++ – Fundamentals of Modern C++ Programming (CPP1)
Schedule:
3 days (9:00-17:00)

Training and learning environment

IT classroom with desks, computer monitors, and a projection screen at the front.
What does the environment for in-person IT courses look like?We hold training courses in our own classrooms equipped with modern computer equipment for each participant and a large projection screen. Each workstation is fitted with a powerful computer for seamless practical exercises, and the environment supports a calm, friendly atmosphere during training.
IT classroom with desks, computer monitors, and a projection screen at the front.
Do I need to bring my own laptop to the classroom IT course?Our training rooms are fully equipped, so you do not need to bring your own laptop. A modern computer with all necessary hardware and software is ready for you at your workstation.
Sample ICT Pro certificate of successful completion of an IT training course.
Will you receive an official certificate after completing an IT course?Yes, upon successful completion of the training course, you will receive an official ICT Pro certificate confirming your participation and acquired technical skills. You can use it to verify your qualifications or add it to your professional profile.
Exterior view of the COMGUARD office building on Sochorova Street in Brno.
Where can you find our training center in Brno?The premises of the ICT Pro training center are located on the 1st floor of the COMGUARD building at Sochorova 38 in Brno. Positioned on the border of Žabovřesky and Komín, the location is easily accessible by both car and public transport.
Exterior view of the Opatov Park office building in Prague, Chodov.
Where can you find our training center in Prague?The premises of the ICT Pro training center are located on the 1st floor of the Opatov Park building at Líbalova 1, Prague 11 – Chodov. The location provides a comfortable environment for your education with convenient access.
Fully equipped kitchenette with a coffee machine, microwave, sink, and shelves with cups and glasses.
What facilities and refreshments are available to you during training breaks?Our training centers feature a fully equipped kitchenette for a comfortable break during your courses. The facilities include a coffee machine, microwave, kettle, and a wide selection of drinks and snacks.
Coffee station featuring an automatic coffee machine, yellow and white cups, glasses, and syrups.
What beverage refreshments are available during your course?A beverage station with a coffee machine, teas, syrups, and water is at your disposal throughout the entire training session. You can enjoy a coffee or another drink of your choice anytime during breaks.
Table with sweet pastries, fruit syrups, a water dispenser, and glasses set up for training participants.
What light refreshments are provided for you during the courses?During course breaks, participants can enjoy light sweet snacks, pastries, and fruit syrups to mix their own drinks. Fresh water dispenser and plates are also available for your convenience.
Wicker baskets filled with packaged savory snacks, sweet biscuits, and snack bars.
Should I bring my own snacks to ICT Pro training?There is no need to. A wide selection of savory snacks, sweet biscuits, and snack bars is available for you during breaks. Boost your energy for all-day focus right inside the training center premises.
Outdoor wooden terrace with green surroundings by the glass building of the training center.
Can you spend training breaks in the fresh air?Yes, an outdoor terrace is available at our training center. During breaks between learning sessions, you can relax in the fresh air in a pleasant green environment.
Spacious outdoor wooden terrace with seating and views of the surrounding area.
Where can you relax during course breaks?Our training center features a spacious outdoor terrace with seating options. During breaks between learning sessions, you can step outside to relax and recharge in the fresh air.