Book

Android How to Program

📖 Overview

Android How to Program provides comprehensive instruction in Android app development using Java programming. The book covers both fundamental concepts and advanced techniques required to build professional Android applications. The text follows a practical, hands-on approach with complete working programs and step-by-step tutorials. Code examples demonstrate key Android features including UI design, database integration, web services, multimedia, location-based services, and device sensors. Each chapter includes self-review exercises and programming challenges to reinforce learning through practice. The material progresses from basic app creation to complex real-world applications, with detailed explanations of Android architecture and APIs. The book serves as both an introductory guide and reference manual for Android development, emphasizing industry best practices and professional software engineering principles. Its systematic approach helps readers develop the technical skills and understanding needed to create robust mobile applications.

👀 Reviews

Readers find the book comprehensive but dense. Many appreciate its detailed coverage of Android development fundamentals and extensive code examples. A common sentiment is that it works better as a reference than a learning guide. Likes: - Step-by-step code explanations - End-of-chapter exercises and assignments - Coverage of Android Studio basics - Well-organized chapters - Good for Java programmers transitioning to Android Dislikes: - Outdated content (covering older Android versions) - Text is dry and technical - Examples are overly complex for beginners - Large page count makes it unwieldy - High price point Ratings: Amazon: 3.7/5 (84 reviews) Goodreads: 3.8/5 (92 ratings) One reader noted: "Good for reference but too heavy for learning Android from scratch." Another commented: "The exercises helped reinforce concepts but many code examples no longer work with recent Android versions." Some readers suggest supplementing with online tutorials for a more practical learning approach.

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🤔 Interesting facts

📱 Paul Deitel co-founded Deitel & Associates with his son Harvey Deitel, creating a family legacy in technology education that spans decades 🎓 The book's approach is based on "live code" examples, meaning every concept is demonstrated through complete, working Android apps rather than theoretical explanations 🌟 Paul Deitel pioneered the use of syntax-coloring in programming textbooks, making code easier to understand by highlighting different elements in distinct colors 📚 The Deitel "How to Program" series, which includes this Android book, has been used in over 150 countries and translated into multiple languages 💻 The book covers material aligned with Google's Android Developer certification exam, making it valuable for both students and professionals seeking certification