A Step-by-Step Learning Path With Timeline For Students In - C (Programming Language)

C is one of the most fundamental programming languages. It is widely used in systems programming, embedded systems, operating systems, and performance-critical applications. Mastering C builds a strong foundation for learning other languages like C++, Java, and Rust. Below is a practical learning roadmap with a suggested timeline.

Month 1: Basics of C Programming

Week 1:

Introduction to programming and history of C

Installing a C compiler (GCC, Turbo C, or Code::Blocks)

Writing your first C program (Hello, World!)

Understanding structure of a C program

Week 2:

Data types, constants, and variables

Input and output (scanf, printf)

Operators (arithmetic, relational, logical, bitwise)

Week 3:

Control statements: if, if-else, switch-case

Loops: for, while, do-while

Week 4:

Functions: declaration, definition, and calling

Scope of variables, recursion basics

Month 2: Intermediate Concepts

Week 5:

Arrays: 1D and 2D arrays

Strings and string handling functions

Week 6:

Pointers: basics, pointer arithmetic

Pointers with arrays and functions

Week 7:

Structures and unions

Enumerations and typedef

Week 8:

File handling in C (read, write, append)

Command-line arguments

Month 3: Advanced Topics

Week 9:

Dynamic memory allocation (malloc, calloc, realloc, free)

Memory management best practices

Week 10:

Advanced pointer usage (pointer to pointer, function pointers)

Linked lists (singly linked list basics)

Week 11:

More data structures in C: stacks, queues

Introduction to trees

Week 12:

Error handling and debugging techniques

Understanding compilation, linking, and execution process

Month 4: Projects and Practice

Week 13–14:

Mini projects:

Student record management system

Simple calculator using functions

File-based address book

Week 15–16:

Work on a larger project:

Library management system

Banking system simulation

Inventory management

Extra: Participate in coding contests on platforms like Hacker Rank, Code forces, or LeetCode (C-based problems).

By following this 4-month structured plan, students will develop a strong command over C programming, covering everything from basics to advanced concepts. Continuous practice and project building will ensure mastery. Once you’re comfortable with C, you can confidently move on to C++ or systems-level programming.