Hi, The return (0) line indicates that you have finished executing the code and is forfitting the memory so that other programs can use it. Personally, I put that line at the end of my programs.As for command-line tools, I recommend Borland. Cheers, Joseph -----Original Message----- From: programmingblind-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:programmingblind-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Alex Hall Sent: Friday, December 18, 2009 3:54 PM To: Blind Programming List Subject: c++ confusion Hi all, I may have to learn a lot of c++ or, more specifically, visual c++ sometime soon. I am confused on some things from my limited c++ experience in the past: 1. Some compilers want the "return(0) and a few other lines at the end of your main function, while some do not. I have noticed this and similar small differences. What is this all about, and what decides what specific code needs to be included? 2. What is visual c++ to regular c++ and is it very different? Can I use my favorite c++ program to compile vc++ or does this language require its own compiler? 3. Is there a simple command-line c++ or vc++ compiler I can get so I can use EdSharp instead of a dedicated IDE? Thanks for any help! Have a great day, Alex New email address: mehgcap@xxxxxxxxx __________ View the list's information and change your settings at //www.freelists.org/list/programmingblind No virus found in this incoming message. Checked by AVG - www.avg.com Version: 8.5.427 / Virus Database: 270.14.113/2573 - Release Date: 12/18/09 07:35:00 __________ View the list's information and change your settings at //www.freelists.org/list/programmingblind