Smaller C: Lean Code for Small Machines

For makers looking to use the smallest controllers or wring the highest performance out of larger controllers, the C language is still the best option. This practical book provides a solid grounding in C basics for anyone who tinkers with programming microcontrollers. You'll explore many ways C enables developers and makers to get big results out of tiny devices.

Author Marc Loy shows you how to write clean, maintainable C code from scratch. This language and its C++ cousin are still widely used to write low-level code for device drivers or operating systems. By understanding C syntax and quirks, you'll gain an enduring computer language literacy that will help you pick up new languages and styles more easily.

Learn C fundamentals including data types, flow control, and functions

Explore memory management including how programs work on small devices

Understand answers provided in online forums such as Reddit or Stack Overflow

Write efficient, custom C code that's both readable and maintainable

Analyze the performance of your code and weigh optimizations

Evaluate third-party libraries for use in your own projects

Create your own libraries to share with others