Which is better, Let us C or Programming in ANSI C (K&R)?

The comparison between "Let Us C" by Yashavant Kanetkar and "Programming in ANSI C" by Brian W. Kernighan and Dennis M. Ritchie (often referred to as "K&R") depends on your learning preferences, background, and goals. Let's look at both:

1. "Let Us C" by Yashavant Kanetkar:

   • Target Audience: "Let Us C" is often considered beginner-friendly and is aimed at individuals who are new to programming.
   • Approach: The book focuses on a step-by-step approach to learning C programming, making it accessible for beginners. It covers the fundamentals of C programming with clear explanations and examples.
   • Style: Kanetkar's writing style is known for being easy to understand, and the book includes a variety of programming exercises to reinforce concepts.
   • Additional Topics: "Let Us C" includes additional topics beyond the basics, such as data structures and file handling.

2. "Programming in ANSI C" (K&R):

   • Target Audience: "K&R" is often recommended for individuals who want a deep understanding of the C language and its intricacies. It's suitable for both beginners and those with some programming experience.
   • Approach: This book is more concise and direct, emphasizing a hands-on approach to programming. It covers the essentials of C programming language as defined by the ANSI C standard.
   • Style: The writing style is compact and assumes a degree of familiarity with programming concepts. It is known for its clarity and emphasis on good programming practices.
   • Historical Significance: "K&R" is considered a classic and was written by the creators of the C language. It's known for its historical significance and its impact on the development of C programming.

Which is better depends on your goals:

• If you are an absolute beginner and prefer a gradual and detailed introduction to C programming with a focus on exercises, "Let Us C" might be a good starting point.
• If you are looking for a more concise and in-depth understanding of C programming, especially if you value historical significance and a closer adherence to the ANSI C standard, "Programming in ANSI C" (K&R) may be more suitable.

Many programmers find value in using both books at different stages of their learning journey. Ultimately, the "best" book depends on your individual learning style and goals.