Learn C++ by Example • Frances Buontempo & Matt Godbolt • GOTO 2026

Learn C++ by Example • Frances Buontempo & Matt Godbolt • GOTO 2026

by Frances Buontempo, Matt Godbolt

Formal & Physical Sciences Computing & Cybersecurity UMComputer programmingUMXProgramming and scripting languages: general
🎙 Frances Buontempo, Matt Godbolt 👥 1.1M 📅 February 19, 2026 ⏱ 30 min 👁 3K 📄 expert opinion 🧭 2026-08-02
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

C++Modern C++CoroutinesSpaceship operatorTeaching by example

Summary

In this GOTO Book Club interview, Matt Godbolt talks with Frances Buontempo about her book ‘Learn C++ by Example’. The book targets programmers who have some C++ background but may be unfamiliar with features introduced since C++11. Frances explains her teaching philosophy, which emphasizes self-contained, playable examples like simple games to make complex concepts accessible. She discusses specific modern C++ features such as the spaceship operator, structured bindings, and coroutines. The conversation also covers the evolution of C++ and upcoming features like reflection in C++26. Frances shares her background in mathematics and her father’s influence on her teaching approach. The interview highlights the importance of practical, engaging examples in learning and teaching programming. Matt and Frances also touch on the use of tools like Compiler Explorer and C++ Insights for learning. The discussion is informal and aimed at programmers looking to update their C++ skills.

145 words

Critical Evaluation

The interview provides valuable insights into modern C++ features and effective teaching methods. Frances Buontempo, as the author of the book, offers credible expertise, and Matt Godbolt’s questions are relevant and engaging. The discussion is technically accurate, with clear explanations of concepts like the spaceship operator and coroutines. However, the format is an interview, so it lacks the depth of a formal tutorial or technical paper. The information is presented in an accessible manner, but some advanced topics are only briefly touched upon. The sources mentioned are primarily the book itself and tools like Compiler Explorer, which are reputable. The title accurately reflects the content. Overall, the video is a useful resource for programmers seeking to understand modern C++ features and effective learning strategies. The main limitation is the lack of detailed code examples and the conversational nature, which may not satisfy viewers looking for in-depth technical instruction. Nevertheless, the expertise of the speakers and the practical focus make it a valuable contribution to the C++ learning community.

168 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content: an interview about the book 'Learn C++ by Example' and modern C++ features.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The discussion is led by two recognized experts in C++ (Frances Buontempo, author of the book, and Matt Godbolt, creator of Compiler Explorer). They provide accurate technical explanations and practical examples. The content is based on the author's book and conference experience, but it is an interview without formal citations or peer review. The information is reliable for educational purposes, but not exhaustive.

Chapters

Cited Sources

Concurring Sources

  • C++ Reference — Standard reference for C++ features, consistent with the technical explanations.
  • Compiler Explorer — Tool mentioned and used to illustrate C++ code.
  • C++ Insights — Tool mentioned to understand C++ constructs.

External References

Contribution & Novelties

The interview provides a unique perspective on teaching modern C++ through practical, game-based examples, which is an original approach compared to traditional reference books. It highlights the importance of self-contained examples and the use of tools like Compiler Explorer and C++ Insights to demystify complex features. The discussion also touches on upcoming C++26 features like reflection, offering a forward-looking view.

Pour aller plus loin :

110 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in quality and reliability, reflecting the expertise of the speakers and accurate technical content. The quantity of information is moderate, as it is an interview rather than a comprehensive tutorial. The technical level is appropriate for intermediate programmers, balancing accessibility with depth.

Reliability 8/10