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From: mudpit@lamont.ldgo.columbia.edu (dan quoidbach)
Newsgroups: comp.sys.mac.programmer
Subject: Getting started in C programming for the Mac
Keywords: If ignorance is bliss then I'm a happy camper.
Message-ID: <2355@lamont.ldgo.columbia.edu>
Date: 2 May 90 18:28:16 GMT
Organization: Lamont-Doherty Geological Observatory N.Y.
Lines: 33

As the subject line indicates, I'm interested in learning how to program in
C on the Mac.  We got the higher-ups at work to get us an SE30 but they won't
develop any software for us.  It's not a big thing, the job will still get 
done using the PC-clones they support.  However the job could be done 
_better_ with a Mac.  Thus I've made it my long term goal to learn how to
program the Mac so that we can develope our own tools.  However, I'm going 
to need some help to get started.  I'm not a programmer, just a geologist
with some Fortran experience.  I'm not just low on the learning curve, I'm 
stuck in the pit down at the bottom of the slope! I would really appreciate
some information from the net on how to get started and what pitfalls to
avoid.  Obviously I'm in no rush to learn so I'd like to take time and do
it right and work toward develping some specific programs I have in mind.
So, a few basic questions:

I've seen a number of programming packages advertised, like Think C and 
Lightspeed C.  Is one superior to the others or is it a matter of taste?

Is a C package all you need to get started or are there other tools of the
trade that are a must have (debuggers, etc)?

Are there any books and reference materials that are useful or essential
besides whatever manuals come with the C package?

As you can see this is a whole new world to me.  I've called my local Apple
Authorized Dealer, but he didn't seem too interested in helping me out.
I guess he has too much business already :-) !  Any help you can give me
will be very much appreciated.  

Please reply to mudpit@lamont.ldgo.columbia.edu

Thanks a bunch for the help,

Dan Quoidbach