[Help] Learning C++ for reverse engineering - best practices?

[jygen]

Learning C++ for Reverse Engineering - Need Guidance

Hello everyone,

I'm focusing on learning C++ specifically to become better at reverse engineering and writing tools. I have some basic knowledge but want to structure my learning properly.

My current level:
• Understand basic syntax (variables, loops, functions)
• Can read simple C/C++ code
• Familiar with pointers at a basic level

Where I'm struggling:
• Windows API programming
• Memory management best practices
• Understanding more complex pointer arithmetic
• Writing efficient code for analysis tools

Specific questions:

1. What C++ concepts are most important for RE work?
2. Any recommended books/tutorials focused on systems programming?
3. Should I focus on modern C++ or is traditional C-style C++ more relevant for this field?
4. What small projects would you recommend to practice?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

// Example of where I'm at currently
#include <iostream>
#include <windows.h>

int main() {
    // I can do basics but Windows API feels overwhelming
    HANDLE process = GetCurrentProcess();
    std::cout << "Process ID: " << GetProcessId(process) << std::endl;
    return 0;
}

Thanks in advance for your help!