There are several types of computer languages, like machine level languages, assembly level languages and high level languages, etc. I will not go deep into the theory part. “C Language” is a middle level computer programming language developed by Mr. Dennis Ritchie. Where other languages such as FORTAN (Formula Translation, COBOL(Common Business Oriented Language), etc are still present when C was developed, but are only meant for some specific purpose. So C language gain popularity as it is a general purpose language. C language was standardized by ANSI (American National Standard institute) in the year 1982 and it took almost 7 years to do so. From the year 1989 c was known as ANSI C.

Features of C Language:

• It is a middle level language as it has the simplicity of high level languages as well as the power of low level language.
• It is an excellent, efficient and general purpose language for most of the applications.
• C is a small language
• C is portable as programs written in one computer can run on any computer
• C supports modular program development as we can write C programs in parts.
• This language is extendable

The above are the basic features of C language, but the scope of C does not end here and C also act as base for many other language and operating system development. C programs can be run on any computing platform may it be UNIX, LINUX, DOS or Windows. But you require a compiler such as Borland Turbo C to create and execute a C program.

You can get a free version of Turbo C++ for Windows 7 and Windows 8 at http://download.cnet.com/Turbo-C-for-Windows-8-and-7/3000-2212_4-75786077.html

Now let us see what are the steps for execution of a C program. I will focus on the interface available with the Turbo C.

1. Program Creation:

A new C file can be created from menu option NEW and the file can be saved with menu option SAVE. You always need to save the file with an extension of “.c”. You can also have the menu option SAVE AS and and existing file can be opened using the option OPEN. Have a look at the below screenshot of the Turbo C environment.

2. program Compilation:

Program compilation means converting source code into object code or machine code. turbo C acts a compiler for C program. To run a program successfully you need to first compile the C program created by using the Alt + F9 Keys.

3. Program Execution:

It happens after compilation is done to get the result on the screen. To run a C program you have to press Ctrl + F9 keys.

Note: All the C programs are based on DOS platform and also runs on DOS command prompt.