Hello,

I'd like to learn programming, and been asking around for recommendations. A vast majority suggested to learn C and then C++, but I've also been strongly suggested starting with a "well structured language" like Pascal before anything else. I don't fully understand the meaning of this, and would like some guidance for starting with Pascal. Actually this sounds as if C was about programming, and Pascal just a step towards it.

Pascal is a very capable programming language in its own right. It is a language that originally did not support many of the "shortcuts" that C/C++ allow. If you are just starting to learn programming, PASCAL is a great choice because of its strong structured nature.

I've tried to look for documentation both online/downloadable and books, and though I've found loads for C/C++, almost nothing for Pascal.

I have not looked for books on PASCAL lately, but I know many existed and a search on amazon.com will probably turn up many titles with their ISBN numbers that your local bookstore can order (given the ISBN number or author & title) if you don't want to get them from an online vendor.

All I have is a small course (with Borland programs) in windoze for Turbo Pascal, which means I've been forced to install windoze while my OS is Debian. I'm concerned that this Turbo Pascal course may not help me with learning Pascal with GPC... may be it can help me learning the basics?

Turbo Pascal in windoze is not so bad, for a start. The best part of the Borland languages is the integrated development environment. There is a Debian package for GPC. GPC has many of the Turbo Pascal extensions and units. Info on these can be found on the GPC web site and the GPC documentation.

Good luck,

Pat