About the book

Teach yourself to write simple Delphi programs easily.

The fourth edition of Introducing Delphi Programming builds on the strengths of the previous editions to provide an even better introduction to computer programming.

Written in an easy, informal style, it takes readers step by step through programming fundamentals - from the notion of a variable through to database programming and simple object-orientated concepts. Because system development is more than just programming, it also introduces principles for user interface design and for incremental program development and testing. On the basis that experience is an excellent teacher, it presents each new concept through a specially developed example that the reader can enter into the computer and see in action at the same time as learning the underlying theory.

The book covers Delphi versions 6, 7 and 8, with most chapters suited to earlier versions too. The database chapters cover the widely-used open source database MySQL and appendices cover the installation of both Delphi and MySQL.

In addition to the many worked examples designed to help develop programming theory, each chapter contains a set of problems for students to work through to assimilate both theoretical and practical programming knowledge. Each chapter is structured to include a chapter purpose and review, lists of important concepts and new Delphi features. These factors combine to offer a leading introductory text on computer programming that provides a stimulating and practical way for students to gain self-confidence while developing their programming skills.

"Introducing Delphi Programming: Theory through practice turned out to be outstanding: it begins where I needed to begin: it progresses smoothly from task to task; it is built around sets of practical exercises and practice activities; explanations are clear and well organized. It is the best "how to" book of any type that I have ever used." Pat Byrd Department of Applied Linguistics & ESL,
Georgia State University, USA