This is a concise yet thorough reference to C# 3.0 programming as implemented in Microsoft's Visual Studio 2008. C# 3.0 in a Nutshell gets right to the point, covering the essentials of language syntax and usage as well as the parts of the .NET base class libraries you need to build working applications. But unlike earlier editions, this book is now organized entirely around concepts and use cases, providing greater depth and readability. C# 3.0 introduces the most significant enhancements yet to the programming language, and C# 3.0 in a Nutshell delves deep into the subject while assuming minimal prior knowledge of C#-making it accessible to anyone with a reasonable background in programming. In addition to the language, the book covers the .NET CLR and the core Framework assemblies, along with the unified querying syntax called Language Integrated Query (LINQ), which bridges the traditional divide between programs and their data sources. Free of clutter and long introductions, this book provides a map of C# 3.0 knowledge in a succinct and unified style: Opening chapters concentrate purely on C#, starting with the basics of syntax, types and variables, and finishing with advanced topics such as unsafe code and preprocessor directives Later chapters cover the core .NET 3.5 Framework, including such topics as LINQ, XML, collections, I/O and networking, memory management, reflection, attributes, security, threading, application domains and native interoperability Designed as a handbook for daily use, C# 3.0 in a Nutshell is an ideal companion to any of the vast array of books that focus on an applied technology such as WPF, ASP.NET, or WCF. The areas of the language and .NET Frameworkthat such books omit, this one covers in detail.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
More Than a Reference!:
I have been building software professionally for about 20 years, and in that time have read a lot of books. While generally impressed with the O'Reilly series, this book exceeded my expectations. I think C# 3.0 in a Nutshell is clear, very well written, concise (even at 700+ pages), thorough and practical. While not for the first-time programmer, this book is an excellent reference, guide and teacher for those familiar with .NET and C# concepts, and who wants to review the basics as well as learn about... more info
Very good, from a non-programmer:
This book seems like a great reference so far. I had been hoping to learn C# with this book, but it's not really a learning book. it's definitely first and foremost a reference. Most of the wording is quite dense. I found myself reading the first few pages several times because they were so packed with information as they tried to explain the entire layout of C#. Later in the book I could pick out useful information with a fast read. I was annoyed that it advertises a free online edition, because that... more info
Great C# reference:
This is one of the few programming books I bought I actually keep nearby. Great reference for everyday C# coding needs - better organized and more clear than MSDN.
On my desk:
This book is a huge step up from the first edition. It's totally rewritten. I bought it a couple of weeks ago and now it's between the keyboard and the screen. I am continually referring to it.
The chapters on assemblies and reflection are worth the price of the book alone.
I could not ask for more.