Objective-C Programmer’s Reference

Bycoliveira

41BgjpodVWL._SY300_Have you ever wished to find a concise and complete reference to Objective-C? Objective-C Programmer’s reference teaches everything you need to know about the language to become a productive developer of iPhone, iPad, and Mac OS X apps. The book can now be preordered from its Amazon web page.

Here is a list of topics covered in the book:

Introduction

We provide here the main motivation for learning Objective-C, explaining how it is used, and how it was adopted for the creation of software in the Apple platform. We also provide an introduction to the Xcode environment, the IDE used to create Objective-C applications.

  1. Why Using Objective-C?
  2. Setting Up the Xcode Environment

Chapter 1: The C in Objective-C

The Objective-C language was created as an extension of C, which means that any program written in C is also a valid Objective-C program. As a result, many of the basic expressions in Objective-C are identical to their equivalents in C. To become a good Objective-C programmer, you need to have a basic understanding of the C language. In this chapter, we provide a quick introduction to the most important concepts from the C language used in Objective-C.

  1. Simple Expressions
  2. Functions
  3. Loops
  4. Conditional Expressions
  5. Structures
  6. Arrays
  7. 7.     Pointers

Chapter 2: Classes

In Objective-C, classes are the building blocks of applications. They are the syntactic construct used to define the methods and variables that become the components of an object. This chapter gives an introduction to the concept of Objective-C classes, and how to define them. One of the main features of classes is how they can be described in separate files: one for the interface and another for the implementation. This clear separation makes it possible to share only the important aspects of a class, while hiding any implementation information that is not needed by clients.

1)     Defining a New Class

2)     Adding Member Variables

3)     Adding and Defining Instance Methods

4)     Using Class Methods

5)     Defining Class Properties

6)     Using Objective-C Frameworks

Chapter 3: Strings and Container Classes

One of the main characteristics of Objective-C programs is the constant use of dynamic objects to simplify the management of memory and other resources. Among the most fundamental classes in the Objective-C runtime are the classes used to handle strings, numbers, and collections of objects. In this chapter we show how to use these basic classes and their methods.

1)     String Classes

2)     Numeric Classes

3)     Mutable and Immutable Containers

4)     Array Containers

5)     Dictionary Containers

 

Chapter 4: Protocols and Categories

Objective-C promotes a clear separation between implementation and interfaces. One of the techniques used to encourage this separation is the concept of protocols. A protocol allows classes to communicate by just describing a subset of the methods they respond to. Another way to promote this separation of concerns is to extend classes through categories: instead of making everyone aware of the methods available at a particular class, a programmer can add categories to classes as they are needed. This results in a much cleaner implementation, which reduces dependencies on other parts of the application.

1)     Declaring Protocols

2)     Understanding Protocols

3)     Creating Categories

4)     Extending Existing Classes

Chapter 5: Inheritance

Object Oriented Programming is the main idea that motivated the creation of Objective-C. An important aspect of OOP is the ability to create new classes that inherit the methods, variables and properties of existing classes. The proper use of inheritance, however, requires a certain care both the in the design phase as well as in the proper implementation of derived classes. In this chapter we cover the main ideas that you need to be familiar with when creating class hierarchies.

1)     The Concept of Inheritance

2)     The init Method in Derived Classes

3)     The Proper Use of the super Keyword

4)     When to Use Inheritance

Chapter 6: Block Syntax

Objective-C provides another technique to reduce programming effort through its block syntax. A block is a piece of code that can be passed around to other parts of the application. A block not only retains information about the code but also about variables that were in scope at the time the block was created. In this way, blocks are similar to the concept of closures available in other languages. By defining blocks, you can make the implementation of certain algorithms more extensible. You can also use blocks to implement code that will run in other threads, as accomplished by some Objective-C libraries.

1)     Defining Blocks.

2)     Sharing Variables with Blocks.

3)     Blocks in The Foundation Framework.

 

 

Chapter 7: Dynamic Binding

One of the biggest advantages of Objective-C is that it allows programmers to choose the right combination of speed and flexibility, depending on their needs. The runtime system of Objective-C is the main mechanism that can be used by programmers to switch between dynamic and static programming.  In this chapter we learn how to explore the run time system to achieve the best combination of static checking and dynamic flexibility in your software.

1)     Using method selectors

2)     Checking for Specific Messages

3)     Intercepting Messages

4)     Dynamically Responding to Messages

5)     Reflection and Instance Variables

Chapter 8: Memory Management

One of the advantages of working with a object oriented language with dynamic features is that memory management can be simplified, and most of the work is done by system libraries. Objective-C uses a reference-based model for memory management, with rules that makes it almost straightforward to allocate and release memory in any application. In this chapter we review the simple rules that you need to master in order to write correct objective-C code. We also cover the latest techniques provided by Apple compilers, which practically remove the need for manual intervention in the memory management mechanisms.

1)     Allocating memory

2)     Releasing memory

3)     The retain method

4)     Memory management rules

5)     Deallocating objects

6)     Using memory pools

7)     Using Automatic Reference Counting

8)     Using Garbage Collection

 

Chapter 9: Key-Value Programming

A very common way to interact with objects in Objective-C is to set values for particular property names, also referred to as keys. Key-value programming is very important because it is used in so many libraries in Objective-C. It allows an object to be used through a simple interface, avoiding the need to create multiple subclasses when the only difference between objects is the in the set of values they contain.

1)     The Concept of Key-Value Programming

2)     Working with Key-Value Based Objects

3)     Implementing Key-Value Based Interfaces

4)     Examples of Libraries That Use Key-Value Programing

Chapter 10: The Filesystem

Objective-C libraries provide a simplified mechanism for accessing system resources. One example is how the Foundation Framework can be used to access files and directories. In this chapter we show how the classes in this standard Objective-C framework can be used to create files, read and write data to existing files, and manipulate the content of directories.

  1. Creating Files with the Foundation Framework
  2. Reading Directories
  3. Changing Permissions
  4. Reading Binary Data

Chapter 11: The Foundation Framework

Classes in Objective-C are organized into frameworks for easy of distribution and use. The Foundation Framework provides classes needed to write programs interacting with the environment. The basic utility classes such as strings, dictionaries, and arrays are also contained in the Foundation Framework. In this chapter, we provide a reference to the Foundation Frameworks classes, with examples where necessary.

  1. The Main Components
  2. List of Foundation Framework classes.

Chapter 12: The Compiler

To use Objective-C effectively, it is important to understand the basic infrastructure of the language. The compiler plays a special role in the software development cycle, since it determines how source code is translated into executable programs. In the Apple environment, two main compilers are used: gcc, the traditional compiler used by Mac OS X, and the new compiler based on the LLVM (lower level virtual machine), which has been developed by Apple in the last few years. In this chapter we take a look at the several options provided by the Objective-C compilers and how to use them to write fast and reliable code.

  1. Choosing a compiler
  2. Compiler options
  3. Compiler options exclusive to the iOS platform
  4. Code optimization
  5. Debugging options

Chapter 13: The Preprocessor

Objective-C comes with a powerful pre-processor that can simplify the input of repetitive code into a program. The pre-processor, however, may be the source of numerous programming pitfalls, if you are not careful with its usage. In this chapter we present the main features of the pre-processor and how to avoid some of its rough edges.

1)     The #import mechanism

2)     Defining constants

3)     Defining macros

4)     Avoiding Problems with Macros

 

 

Chapter 14: Unit Tests

Test driven development is a software methodology that requires that every feature of a program to be thoroughly tested with unit testing code. Test driven development is a great way to employ the modularity of object oriented languages such as Objective-C. In this chapter we learn how to create unit tests in the Objective-C language. We will also see how to manage and run unit tests using the X-Code IDE.

  1. Unit testing libraries in Objective-C
  2. Creating unit tests
  3. Practicing test driven development
  4. Running test on X-Code

Chapter 15: Debugging

Any programmer knows how difficult it is to write defect-free software. That is why every platform has a number of integrated debugging aids. Xcode provides a complete solution for writing and debugging programs, which makes it much easier to find bugs in a new or existing applications. In this chapter we explain how to use these debugging features. Using a tutorial style, we describe how to use features such as breakpoints, watch windows, conditional expressions, and the logging terminal.

  1. Setting breakpoints
  2. Watching expressions
  3. Investigating local objects
  4. Using the logging terminal

Chapter 16: Building a Mac OS X Application in Cocoa

The most important use of Objective-C is in the implementation of applications that employ the Cocoa Frameworks. As an Objective-C programmer, your will most certainly be involved in the creation of iOS apps or full Mac OS X applications. In this chapter, we will introduce Cocoa, the framework used to develop desktop applications in the Mac OS X.

1)     A simple Mac OS X application

  1. Setting up a Cocoa Project
  2. Writing a Simple Mac OS X Application
  3. c.     Running and Testing the Application

 

Chapter 17: Building an iOS App on Cocoa Touch

Cocoa touch is the framework used to create rich applications for iOS, the operating system that powers the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. While using technologies similar to Cocoa, iOS provides a simplified architecture in comparison to the full-featured Cocoa framework. Cocoa Touch also provides access to mobile resources such as cameras, the accelerometer, and other hardware managed by iOS.

1)     A Simple iOS App

  1. Setting a Cocoa Touch Project
  2. Writing a Simple App
  3. Running and Testing the App

2)     Were to Go From Here

 

Similar Posts:

Similar Posts

Sample Code on Programming Books Considered Harmful

Bycoliveira

I am an avid reader of programming books. I think it is important to benefit from the experience of other fellow programmers, and one way of doing this, other than reading other people’s software, is reading books that collect some kind of development experience. Although it is interesting to read about programming, there is a…

The Way a Program Starts in Windows

Bycoliveira

If you write a program in C/C++ for Windows, you are very close to the interface with the operating system. For this reason, it is also interesting to have some idea of what it is doing. There are two main types of Windows programs: graphical programs and console-based programs. The way Windows determine what kind…

What is the right way to handle exceptions?

Bycoliveira

There are several ways to handle exceptions in a program. An exception, that is, a condition from which the program cannot recover locally, can be handled by checking the result of function, or using a try/catch mechanism (which can be simulated in C by a long jump). Between these two extremes of the spectrum, a…

Five Common Mistakes in the Early Design Stage

Bycoliveira

Creating great software requires attention to several details that can make the difference between a well-designed system in one hand, and a failure in terms of features and maintainability in another. Every software engineer has a big list of elements that are necessary for a successful project and that should be part of the work…

The Beauty of Short Methods

Bycoliveira

Writing short methods is one of the pieces of conventional wisdom that have been passed around as a form of agile technique. Many programers adhere to the use of short methods without thinking too much about it, while others disregard the idea altogether, more concerned with the practical activity of creating usable code. There is,…

The Most Common Debugging Styles

Bycoliveira

Debugging code is an activity that shows a lot of the developer’s personality. It is a process that looks a lot like an investigation, leading to the detection of a failure in an application. During the investigation, a programmer has to employ some techniques, like information gathering, testing of hypothesis, performing quick instrumentation, etc. When…

182,112 Comments

  13. Excellent article. Keep posting such kind of info on your page.
    Im really impressed by your site.
    Hey there, You’ve done a fantastic job. I will certainly digg it and in my view suggest to my
    friends. I’m sure they’ll be benefited from this web site.

  15. It’s awesome to pay a visit this website and reading the views
    of all colleagues about this piece of writing, while I am also zealous
    of getting experience.

  19. Aiyo, lacking robust maths ?n Junior College, e?en prestigious school kids m?y stumble in secondary calculations,
    ?o cultivate it p?omptly leh.

    Eunoia Junior College represents contemporary development ?n education, ?ith its ?igh-rise
    school incorporating community ?reas for collaborative knowing ?nd growth.
    Th? college’s emphasis on gorgeous thinking fosters
    intellectual ?nterest and goodwill, supported ?? vibrant
    programs in arts, sciences, ?nd leadership. State-of-t?e-art facilities, consisting ?f performing arts venues,
    all?w students to explore enthusiasms ?nd establish skills holistically.
    Collaborations ?ith esteemed organizations offer improving chances
    f?r res?arch study and international exposure.

    Trainees ?ecome thoughtful leaders, ready t? contribute positively
    t? a diverse world.

    Anderson Serangoon Junior College, arising f?om t?e tactical merger of Anderson Junior College
    ?nd Serangoon Junior College, develops ? dynamic and inclusive knowing community t?at
    prioritizes ?oth academic rigor and extensive personal advancement, guaranteeing trainees ?et individualized attention iin ? nurturing environment.
    ?he institution incl?des an variety
    of innovative facilities, ?uch as specialized science labs
    geared ?p w?th the current innovation, interactive class ?reated f?r ?roup collaboration, ?nd extensive libraries stocked
    ?ith digital resources, ?ll of wh?ch empower trainees t?
    look into ingenious tasks ?n science, technology, engineering, ?nd mathematics.

    By positioning a strong emphasis ?n leadership training ?nd character education throu?h
    structured programs ?ike trainee councils and mentorship efforts,
    learners cultivate essential qualities ?uch as strength, empathy, annd effective team effort t?at extend be?ond scholastic achievements.
    Additionally, t?e college’s devotion to promoting international awareness ?s apparent in its
    reputable international exchange programs ?nd partnerships with overseas
    organizations, enabling students t? acquire vital cross-cultural experiences
    ?nd expand their worldview ?n preparation fo? a internationally linked
    future. ?s a testimony to its effectiveness, finishes f?om
    Anderson Serangoon Junior College regularly acquire admission t? prominent universities ?oth in y?ur area and globally,
    embodying t?? institution’s unwavering commitment to producing confident, adaptable, ?nd
    diverse individuals ready t? master diverse fields.

    Wah, maths acts ?ike th? base block f?r primary education, helping youngsters f?r dimensional
    thinking ?n design paths.

    Alas, m?nus robust math at Junior College, e?en prestigious establishment children m?ght struggle in high school
    equations, t?erefore build t?is p?omptly leh.

    Mums ?nd Dads, competitive mode ?n lah, solid primary mathematics ?esults
    t? superior STEM understanding ?s well as tech aspirations.

    Wah, mathematics acts ?ike t?e base stone ?f primary education, helping kids ?ith geometric thinking in building routes.

    ?-level excellence showcases yo?r potential t? mentors ?nd future bosses.

    Oi oi, Singapore folks, maths ?emains probably the
    highly crucial primary discipline, fostering imagination t?rough challenge-tackling f?r innovative professions.

    Here i? m? blog post … looking for maths tutor

  20. Awesome blog! Is your theme custom made or did you download it from somewhere?
    A theme like yours with a few simple adjustements would really make my
    blog jump out. Please let me know where you got your theme.
    Cheers

  28. Genuinely when someone doesn’t be aware of then its up to
    other viewers that they will help, so here it takes place.

    Also visit my web-site :: ?????

  35. Oh my goodness! Awesome article dude! Thanks, However I
    am experiencing problems with your RSS. I don’t know why I can’t subscribe to it.
    Is there anybody having similar RSS problems?

    Anyone that knows the answer will you kindly respond? Thanx!!

  37. In Singapore, secondary school math tuition ?? crucial for post-PSLE children t? explore
    math enrichment b?yond standard lessons.

    Aiyoh, ?ther countries look u? to Singapore’s math excellence globally lor.

    ?s a moms and dad, blend techniques ?n Singapore math tuition’? innovative methods.

    Secondary math tuition assesses adaptively. Register ?n secondary 1 math tuition for geometry bridges.

    Innovative secondary 2 math tuition ?ses VR f?r geometry.

    Secondary 2math tuition immerses students ?n 3? shapes.
    Cutting-edge secondary 2 math tuition reinvents knowing.
    Secondary 2 math tuition accepts innovation.

    ?oing well in secondary 3 math exams ?? important, as this yea? bridges to
    O-Levels, wh?re math scores eff?ct tertiary entry.
    ?hese outcomes direct profession therapy t?ward
    quantitative fields. Success cultivates perseverance, ?
    trait for lifelong achievements.

    ?he critical secondary 4 exams globalize broadened ?n Singapore.
    Secondary 4 math tuition peers virtual. ?his prep boosts ?-Level.

    Secondary 4 math tuition globalizes.

    ?eyond exam scores, mathematics emerges ass ? critical
    skill in AI’? rapid growth, optimizing models f?r better performance
    ?nd accuracy.

    T? shine in mathematics, love t?e subject ?nd m?ke applying its principles a daily real-life habit.

    Practicing ?ast math papers f?om multiple Singapore schools ?? impo?t?nt for mastering
    data interpretation questions.

    Online math tuition t?rough ?-learning systems ?n Singapore boosts exam
    ?esults by nabling flexible scheduling
    ?round school commitments.

    Alamak, ?on’t worry lor,?our child will m?ke new friends ?n secondary school, just support ?ithout adding extra stress.

    Feel free t? visit my website … online math tutoring jobs in the philippines

  41. I enjoy what you guys are up too. This sort of clever work and coverage!
    Keep up the very good works guys I’ve you guys to blogroll.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.