C++ Tutorial: Data Types & Operators
C++ fundamental types — integers, floats, chars, bools — their sizes, limits, casting, and all operators.
Size matters in C++
Unlike Java or Python, C++ gives you fine-grained control over memory. An `int` is typically 32 bits — but `short` is 16, `long long` is 64. Choosing the right type matters for embedded systems, game physics, and network protocols.
And unlike Python, C++ doesn't silently convert types — you have to be explicit. That's what makes C++ both harder and safer.
What you'll learn in this C++ data types & operators tutorial
This interactive C++ tutorial has 7 hands-on exercises. Estimated time: 18 minutes.
- Integer types — C++ has multiple integer types — choose by size needed:
- Floating-point types — Three floating-point types:
- char and bool — `char` holds a single character (single quotes!). Under the hood it's just an 8-bit integer.
- Type casting — C++ casting:
- Numeric limits — `<limits>` provides the min and max for each type:
- Bitwise operators — Bitwise operators work on individual bits — essential for embedded systems, graphics, and network programming:
- Build a unit converter — No starter code. Build a temperature converter:
C++ Data Types & Operators concepts covered
- Size matters in C++