Gain insights into software design patterns in C, explore their implementation, discover underlying principles, and learn to build a vocabulary for better communication and coding practices.

c.tar.gz

main+customer.c

main+customer.c-copy

watches

customers

observer

Reactor

Reactor-copy

observer-copy

Software design patterns are a valuable tool in any software developer's skill set. However, most design patterns are described in the context of an object-oriented programming language such as C++ or Java. The C language is sadly absent in the pattern literature. This course is here to change that by demonstrating that it is possible to use patterns in C programs and how it adds benefits to C programmers. You will learn why design patterns are more of a communication tool than technical solutions, and how patterns let you build and share a common vocabulary that simplifies communication.

The course presents a number of patterns and explains how to implement them in C. Each pattern is introduced via the problem it solves and the domains where the pattern can be used. We also discuss the underlying design principles as well as the trade-offs when applying the pattern. Finally, the course covers a set of coding idioms that will guide you when applying design patterns in C.

Software Design Patterns in C

Patterns let us draw diagrams, and a picture is worth a thousand words.

Patterns are a blueprint of a design that we can apply in real situations.

Patterns are a form of chunking that lets us manage and reason about complex details.

Patterns serve as a link to our unconscious mind, which helps us understand our motives during the design process..

From a cognitive perspective, how can patterns help a programmer?

From a cognitive perspective, how can patterns help a programmer?

No, patterns are purely technical and are between the user and the computer

Yes, patterns allow a team to build a common vocabulary that implifies communication. 

Are patterns a communication tool?

Yes. Patterns are the fundamental building block of great designs.

No. Each pattern comes with a set of trade-offs that need to be balanced

Will using a pattern always improve your design?

Will using a pattern always improve your design?

Patterns have been used speculatively in many designs without proper consideration of the trade-offs, leading to overly complex solutions

Writing about patterns rather than writing direct solutions leads to a gap where patterns came across as a theoretical idea with little practical value.

Some patterns aren’t meaningful in all programming languages.

The patterns concept is one of the most misunderstood ideas within the software development profession. Which of the following criticisms is valid?

The patterns concept is one of the most misunderstood ideas within the software development profession. Which of the following criticisms is valid?

Introduction to Pattern in C

The First-Class ADT Pattern

The State Pattern

The Strategy Pattern

The Observer Pattern

The Reactor Pattern

Idiomatic Expressions

Conclusion

Quiz: Introduction to Pattern in C