Getting Started with Code::Blocks

Code::Blocks is a free, open-source IDE that supports multiple compilers. Let’s learn how to create and run your first C program using Code::Blocks.

Creating Your First C Program

Step 1: Create a New Project

1. Open Code::Blocks
2. Go to File → New → Project
3. Select “Console application” and click “Go”
4. Choose “C” as the language
5. Click “Next”
6. Enter your project title and choose location
7. Click “Finish”

Step 2: Write the Code

Replace the default code with this Hello World program:

#include <stdio.h>
 
int main() {
    printf("Hello, World!\n");
    return 0;
}

Code Explanation:

• #include <stdio.h> - Includes the standard input/output library
• int main() - The main function where program execution begins
• printf() - Function to print text to the console
• \n - Newline character
• return 0 - Indicates successful program completion

Step 3: Build and Run

1. Build the Program:

   • Click Build → Build (F9) or
   • Click the gear icon in the toolbar

2. Run the Program:

   • Click Build → Run (F10) or
   • Click the green play button in the toolbar

You should see a console window appear with the output:

Hello, World!

Step 4: Understanding Build Messages

After building, you’ll see messages in the “Build log” tab at the bottom:

• Success: “Process terminated with status 0” means no errors
• Error: Red text indicates compilation errors that need fixing

Common Issues and Solutions

1. Compiler Not Found

If you see “Compiler not found”, you need to:

1. Go to Settings → Compiler
2. Select “GNU GCC Compiler”
3. Click “Auto-detect”
4. Click “OK”

2. Program Closes Immediately

Add this code before return 0 to keep the console window open:

printf("Press Enter to continue...");
getchar();

Best Practices

1. Save Frequently: Use Ctrl+S to save your work
2. Use Auto-indent: Press Ctrl+A, then Alt+I to format code
3. Check Build Log: Always review build messages for warnings

Next Steps

Now that you’ve created your first program, try:

• Modifying the text in printf()
• Adding multiple printf() statements
• Using variables to store and display values

Remember to save your work frequently and experiment with different code modifications to better understand how C programming works in Code::Blocks.