Modern C, Third Edition

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Covers the C23 standard

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pBook available Sep 1, 2025
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Discover the full power of modern C programming, with an inside look at the new C23 standard.

For programs that need to be small, fast, and reliable, C is the gold standard. Whether you’re writing embedded code, low-level system routines, or high-performance applications, C is up to the challenge. This unique book by Jens Gustedt, a member of the ISO C standards committee, gets you up to speed with C23.

In Modern C, Third Edition you’ll:

  • Learn C basics, core features, and advanced concepts
  • Leverage major C23 improvements for security, reliability, and performance
  • Write portable code that runs anywhere
  • Build multi-threaded applications with atomics and synchronization
  • Create robust and resilient software with error handling
  • Use type-generic programming for reusable code

In Modern C, Third Edition you’ll learn to harness C’s full potential using the latest tools and techniques. After a quick review of the fundamentals suited for coders who haven’t used C in a while, this book guides you to mastery of C23, the latest ISO standard.

about the technology

From code running on the smallest embedded devices to the low-level libraries behind popular programming languages like Python and Ruby, the software world depends on C. And even after 50 years, it’s still getting better! The new C23 standard adds improvements for security, reliability, and performance. In this thoroughly-revised new edition, author Jens Gustedt gives you an authoritative inside view.

about the book

Modern C, Third Edition is a fast-paced introduction to the C language, with special attention on its most modern features. It starts with a quick review of structure, grammar, and execution and then progresses quickly to control structures, data types, operators, and other core language features. Fully revised for C23, this expanded Third Edition covers compound expressions and lambdas, new insights into approaching program failure, and how to transition smoothly to C23.

what's inside

  • All major C23 features
  • Portable code that runs anywhere
  • Multi-threaded applications with atomics and synchronization
  • Use type-generic programming for reusable code

about the reader

For readers with intermediate skills in any programming language.

about the author

Jens Gustedt is a senior scientist at the French National Institute for Computer Science and Control (INRIA), deputy director of the ICube lab in Strasbourg, France, and an active member of the ISO C standards committee.

Describes the modern language that includes all the improvements made since ANSI C. Jens’ in-depth knowledge of C is apparent in his writing.

Robert C. Seacord, C Standards Committee Convenor

Helps you catch up with modern C and makes you think in detail about implementations, edge cases, and best practices.

Frances Buontempo, Author of Learn C++ by Example

An excellent reference for C23 that doesn’t waste the reader’s time. A rewarding read.

Stephen Kitt, Red Hat

How to use C when compact, high performing code is needed.

Ronald Mak, Author of Object-Oriented Software Design in C++
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team

monthly
annual
$49.99
$399.99
only $33.33 per month
  • five seats for your team
  • access to all Manning books, MEAPs, liveVideos, liveProjects, and audiobooks!
  • choose another free product every time you renew
  • choose twelve free products per year
  • exclusive 50% discount on all purchases
  • renews monthly, pause or cancel renewal anytime
  • renews annually, pause or cancel renewal anytime
  • Modern C, Third Edition ebook for free