Can You Learn Objective-C Without Knowing C or C ?

Objective-C is a powerful and flexible programming language used for developing macOS, iOS, and other systems. Many developers question whether it’s necessary to learn C or C before diving into Objective-C. In this article, we will explore this issue and provide insights to help you make an informed decision.

Why Objective-C?

Objective-C is an object-oriented programming language that adds Smalltalk-style messaging to the C programming language. It is particularly popular for macOS and iOS app development. Understanding Objective-C can unlock a wealth of development opportunities, but the question remains: is prior knowledge of C or C required?

Is C Necessary for Objective-C?

While C is not a mandatory prerequisite to learning Objective-C, having a basic understanding of C can provide significant benefits. This is because Objective-C builds upon the C language. Many Objective-C concepts and syntax are deeply rooted in C, making it challenging for beginners to grasp Objective-C without a foundational knowledge of C.

Some developers suggest that you can learn Objective-C without a strict background in C. In fact, many developers successfully transition into Objective-C without prior C knowledge. However, these developers often find that their learning curve is steeper and solving problems can be more challenging in the early stages of development.

Why C is Even Less Suitable?

C is an extension of C that introduced many new features, including classes, templates, and operator overloading. Since Objective-C does not have many of these features and focuses more on object-oriented programming principles, learning C before Objective-C might not provide the necessary C-based fundamentals that are crucial for Objective-C.

Many seasoned developers recommend avoiding learning C before Objective-C. This approach emphasizes the importance of focusing on the core concepts of C before moving on to Objective-C. This ensures that you have a strong foundation in the language and its paradigms.

Expanding Your Horizons with Lisp

Some developers suggest exploring other object-oriented programming languages, such as those in the Lisp family. Languages like Scheme (Standard SCLO) provide robust object-oriented frameworks and can be a valuable alternative to C or C .

Lisp-based languages often have a different approach to OOP and can offer unique perspectives on coding. They can be a good fit for projects where the focus is on output rather than strict adherence to a common language. While there might not be as many niches specifically for Lisp family languages, they are often used in environments that value flexibility and functional programming paradigms.

Best Practices for Learning Objective-C

If you choose to learn Objective-C, it's important to approach the language with the right mindset and resources. Here are some best practices:

Build a Strong Foundation: Start with the basics of C. This will provide you with the necessary building blocks to understand Objective-C's object-oriented concepts. Understand Memory Management: Objective-C relies heavily on manual memory management. Learn how to use pointers and handle memory effectively to avoid common pitfalls. Stay Updated: The Objective-C ecosystem is constantly evolving, with new tools and frameworks being released. Stay updated to ensure you are working with the latest best practices. Practice Regularly: Like any programming language, practice is key. Write small applications, contribute to open-source projects, and engage in coding challenges to improve your skills.

Conclusion

While it is possible to learn Objective-C without prior knowledge of C or C , it is generally recommended to have a solid understanding of C before diving into Objective-C. This will help you grasp the language more effectively and avoid common pitfalls. However, exploring alternative languages like those in the Lisp family can also provide valuable insights and perspectives in the realm of object-oriented programming.