Programming C# by Jesse Liberty Summary

Programming C# 3.0 provides a comprehensive introduction to C# and .NET 3.5, covering core language features, LINQ, XML, database access, and GUI frameworks like WPF and Windows Forms. It balances foundational programming concepts with practical applications, including ASP.NET, threading, and I/O operations, while addressing newer C# 3.0 features like anonymous types and lambda expressions. The book targets developers seeking to build data-driven and Windows applications.

This book is ideal for programmers with prior experience in another language who want to learn C# or deepen their understanding of .NET 3.5. While beginners can use it, the authors note it’s best suited for those familiar with basic programming concepts like variables and loops. Advanced developers may prefer more specialized guides like C# in Depth.

Yes, for developers new to C# or transitioning from languages like Java or C++. It offers clear explanations of object-oriented principles and .NET tools, though some reviewers criticize occasional technical inaccuracies in delegate and class examples. The hands-on exercises and LINQ/WPF coverage make it a practical resource despite its 2008 publication date.

The book details LINQ for querying data, lambda expressions, anonymous types, and extension methods. It also explores ASP.NET for web apps, ADO.NET for database interactions, and WPF for desktop UIs, with code examples illustrating real-world implementation. Advanced topics like reflection and threading are included for deeper .NET mastery.

Liberty’s book is more beginner-friendly, focusing on foundational concepts and project-based learning, while C# in a Nutshell serves as a concise reference for experienced developers. The latter dives deeper into language intricacies, making it better for advanced C# optimization, whereas Liberty emphasizes broader .NET framework integration.

Critics highlight confusing explanations of delegates and class instantiation, such as incorrectly stating that declaring a delegate field creates an instance. Some examples lack clarity, and the 2008 edition omits modern C# features like async/await. However, its structured approach to LINQ and WPF remains valuable for legacy .NET projects.

Yes, each chapter features Test Your Knowledge sections with coding exercises, quizzes, and projects like building data-driven apps or GUI interfaces. These reinforce topics such as LINQ queries, XML parsing, and ASP.NET page design, catering to hands-on learners.

It introduces OOP through classes, inheritance, and polymorphism, using real-world analogies like modeling a "Clock" class with events. The authors emphasize encapsulation with properties and methods, alongside practical examples of interface implementation and exception handling.

The book explores ASP.NET for web development, WPF for rich desktop interfaces, and ADO.NET for database connectivity. It also covers XML processing, LINQ to SQL, and Windows Forms, alongside Visual Studio integration for debugging and deployment.

While outdated for modern C# versions (e.g., missing async/await), its core concepts like LINQ, OOP, and .NET architecture remain applicable. Developers maintaining legacy systems or learning foundational C# will find value, though newer resources are better for .NET Core or C# 10+ features.

Readers can build Windows desktop apps using WPF, create ASP.NET web pages, and develop data-driven solutions with LINQ and ADO.NET. Examples include file I/O systems, multithreaded programs, and XML-based configuration tools.

Liberty, a Microsoft Senior Program Manager, combines pedagogical clarity with industry insights, particularly in Silverlight and .NET tutorials. His experience ensures practical guidance on Microsoft tools, though some technical oversights persist.