Computer Fundamentals And Programming In C Reema Thareja Oxford University Second Edition 2017 Pdf May 2026

Computer Fundamentals and Programming in C by Reema Thareja (2nd Edition, Oxford University Press, 2017) is a widely recognized textbook designed for undergraduate students in engineering, computer science, and information technology. It serves as a foundational guide, bridging the gap between basic computer literacy and advanced software development. Amazon.com Core Structure and Content

The book is strategically divided into two primary sections to provide a holistic understanding of both hardware and software: Amazon.com Part I: Computer Fundamentals

This section introduces students to the physical and conceptual architecture of computing systems: Amazon.com Computer Evolution:

Insights into the history, generations, and classification of computers. Hardware Components:

Detailed accounts of input/output devices, primary and secondary memory (including newer technologies like Blu-ray), and processor architecture. Data Representation:

Thorough coverage of number systems (binary, octal, hexadecimal) and character encodings like Unicode and ASCII. Software & Networking:

Overview of system and application software, operating systems, and the basics of computer networks and the Internet. Amazon.com Part II: Programming in C

Transitioning into software development, this part focuses on mastering C as a foundational language: Amazon.com Computer Fundamentals and Programming in C by Reema

Introduction to identifiers, data types, constants, variables, and operators. Control Structures:

Deep dives into decision-making (if-else, switch) and branching through various loop constructs. Advanced Concepts:

Modular programming via functions, arrays, strings, and the critical use of pointers. File Management:

Detailed methods for handling data persistence through files and preprocessor directives. Data Structures:

Introduction to essential structures such as linked lists, stacks, queues, trees, and graphs. New Features in the Second Edition

The 2017 edition introduced several updates to keep pace with evolving technology: LECTURE NOTE on PROGRAMMING IN “C”

"Computer Fundamentals and Programming in C" (2nd Edition, 2017) by Reema Thareja is a core textbook designed primarily for undergraduate engineering and computer science students. Published by Oxford University Press, it serves as a bridge between understanding how hardware works and mastering the logic of C programming. Core Themes & Content The end-of-chapter exercises are legendary among students

The book is structured into two main parts to ensure a smooth transition from theory to practice:

Part I: Computer Fundamentals: Covers the "bones" of computing, including computer organization, input/output devices, memory hierarchy (RAM/ROM), and number systems like binary and hexadecimal. It also explores system and application software, computer networks, and the Internet.

Part II: Programming in C: Focuses on the "brain" of development. It introduces the C language starting with basic building blocks (constants, variables, operators) and moves into complex logic such as: Decision control and looping statements. Functions and recursion. Arrays, strings, and pointers.

Advanced data structures like linked lists, stacks, and queues. Pedagogical Features

The textbook is widely praised for its "lucid language" and student-friendly approach. Key educational tools include:

Case Studies: Real-world scenarios at the end of chapters to provide practical context for the concepts.

Programming Tips: Sidebars that highlight common errors and how to avoid them. The book avoids abstract theory

Visual Aids: Numerous well-labeled illustrations and flowcharts to explain complex algorithms.

Review Material: Chapter-end exercises, key terms, and summaries to aid in exam preparation. Rheema Thareja FULL - Compressed | PDF - Scribd


The end-of-chapter exercises are legendary among students. They are categorized into:

While earlier editions were excellent, the 2017 Second Edition refined the content to align with current academic trends. It includes updated case studies and a more polished explanation of difficult topics like Dynamic Memory Allocation and File Handling—areas where many beginners struggle.

It bridges the gap between the hardware concepts (from the fundamentals section) and the software implementation (the C section), helping students understand that code is essentially a way to manipulate hardware.

"Computer Fundamentals and Programming in C" by Reema Thareja strikes a rare balance. It is simple enough for a novice to pick up, yet detailed enough to serve as a reference for advanced topics like pointers and structures.

If you are looking to build a rock-solid foundation in C programming, this book is an investment worth making.


The book avoids abstract theory. Every concept is immediately followed by a working C program. These examples are short, focused, and illustrate the specific topic being discussed.