1.Code::Blocks

What is Code::Blocks?

Code::Blocks is a free and open-source IDE that comes with the MinGW GCC compiler, making it one of the easiest environments for beginners.

How to Install Code::Blocks (Recommended Version)

1. Visit the official Code::Blocks website.

2. Download "Code::Blocks — MinGW Setup" (very important because it includes the compiler).

3. Install using default settings.

4. Launch Code::Blocks → It will automatically detect the GCC compiler.

Creating a New C Project

1. Open Code::Blocks

2. Select File → New → Project

3. Choose Console Application

4. Select C language

5. Enter:

   • Project name

   • Save location

6. The IDE generates a main.c file with starter code.

Compiling & Running

• Press F9 (Build and Run)

• Your output window appears and displays program results.

Why Code::Blocks is great for beginners

• No manual compiler setup

• Simple interface

• Lightweight and stable

• Automatic project structure setup

2.Visual Studio Code (VS Code)

What is VS Code?

VS Code is a powerful, flexible, and professional code editor. It supports C programming through extensions.

Installing VS Code

1. Download and install VS Code.

2. Install the C/C++ Extension (Microsoft).

3. Install the Code Runner extension (optional for easy running).

Installing GCC Compiler

Because VS Code does not come with its own compiler, you must install one:

Windows (MinGW):

1. Download MinGW-w64

2. Install with default settings

3. Add the MinGW /bin folder to Environment Variables → PATH

Verify installation:

gcc --version

If it shows a version number, GCC is ready.

Creating & Running a C Program in VS Code

1. Create a folder

2. Open the folder in VS Code

3. Create a file named main.c

4. Write your C code

Compile:

gcc main.c -o program

Run:

./program

Or use Code Runner → Click Run.

Why many students and professionals prefer VS Code

• Modern and clean UI

• Thousands of extensions

• Powerful debugging tools

• Best for multi-language development

3.Dev-C++

What is Dev-C++?

Dev-C++ is a very lightweight IDE for C and C++. It comes with a built-in GCC compiler, so no extra configuration is needed.

Installation

1. Download Embarcadero Dev-C++

2. Install using default settings

3. Open the IDE — compiler is ready to use

Creating a C Program

1. Go to File → New → Source File

2. Write your C code

3. Save your file with .c extension

Compile and Run

• Compile: Press F11

• Run: Press Ctrl + F10

Why Dev-C++ is still popular

• Extremely fast and light

• Beginner-friendly

• Works well on low-spec computers

Summary Comparison Table