C++ Fundamentals · Getting Started · Lesson 2 of 24
Compiling and Running
Concept
Compiling and Running
C++ is a compiled language. A compiler translates your source file into an executable before it can run.
By the end of this lesson
- Explain the core idea behind Compiling and Running.
- Predict output before running a change.
- Test one realistic and one unusual input.
- Use the result to make the next decision.
How to study this page
- 1. Read one concept.
- 2. Change the example.
- 3. Run, compare, and explain.
- 4. Complete the challenge below.
ExampleRunnable
// Compile: g++ main.cpp -o main
// Run: ./main
#include <iostream>
int main() {
std::cout << "Compiled and running!";
return 0;
}Self-check before continuing
Without looking at the example, describe what changes when you modify one input in Compiling and Running. Then reopen the editor and prove your explanation with a small test.
You are ready to continue when you can predict, test, and explain the result.
Your turn
Explain in a comment what the compiler does before your program can run.
Loading editor…
Console