Preface

Creating top-notch software is no easy task. Developers researching this subject online often struggle to determine which advice is current and which methods have been superseded by newer, better practices. Moreover, most resources explain the process chaotically, lacking proper background, context, and structure.

Modern CMake for C++ provides an end-to-end guide that offers a simpler experience by treating the building of C++ solutions comprehensively. It not only teaches you how to use CMake in your projects but also highlights what makes them maintainable, elegant, and clean. The guide walks you through automating complex tasks common in many projects, including building, testing, and packaging.

The book instructs you on organizing source directories, building targets, and creating packages. As you progress, you will learn to compile and link executables and libraries, understand these processes in detail, and optimize each step for the best results. Additionally, you will discover how to incorporate external dependencies into your project, such as third-party libraries, testing frameworks, program analysis tools, and documentation generators. Finally, you’ll learn how to export, install, and package your solution for both internal and external use.

After completing this book, you’ll be able to use CMake confidently on a professional level.