# Develop a native C++ library on an Arm-based machine

## In this learning path

- [Introduction](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/cross-platform/matrix/)
- [Laying the foundations](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/cross-platform/matrix/1-foundations/)
- [Test the library](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/cross-platform/matrix/2-testing/)
- [Start coding](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/cross-platform/matrix/3-code-1/)
- [Implement matrix operations](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/cross-platform/matrix/4-code-2/)
- [Next Steps](https://learn.arm.com/learning-paths/cross-platform/matrix/_next-steps/)

## About this Learning Path

| Skill level:          | Advanced           |
|-----------------------|--------------------|
| Reading time:         | 2 hrs              |
| Last updated:         | 03 Aug 2026        |
| Author:               | Arnaud de Grandmaison, Arm [GitHub](https://github.com/Arnaud-de-Grandmaison-ARM) [LinkedIn](https://linkedin.com/in/arnauddegrandmaison) |
| Arm IP:               | [Neoverse](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Infrastructure%20Processors) [Cortex-A](https://support.arm.com/?tab=compute-ip&Product%20Type=Application%20Processors) |
| Tags:                 | [Performance and Architecture](https://learn.arm.com/tag/performance-and-architecture) [Linux](https://learn.arm.com/tag/linux) [macOS](https://learn.arm.com/tag/macos) [Windows](https://learn.arm.com/tag/windows) [CPP](https://learn.arm.com/tag/cpp) [GCC](https://learn.arm.com/tag/gcc) [Clang](https://learn.arm.com/tag/clang) [CMake](https://learn.arm.com/tag/cmake) [Google Test](https://learn.arm.com/tag/google-test) [Runbook](https://learn.arm.com/tag/runbook) |

### Who is this for?
This is an advanced topic for developers who want to learn how to develop a library in modern C++ on Arm, using matrix processing as an example.

### What will you learn?
After completing this Learning Path, you'll be able to perform the following tasks:
- Develop a new C++ library.
- Test a C++ library, ensuring it does not regress functionally.

### Prerequisites
Before starting, you'll need the following prerequisites:
- An Arm-based computer running Linux, macOS, or Windows.
- An intermediate understanding of C++ programming.
- A suitable Integrated Development Environment (IDE).
- The [CMake](https://learn.arm.com/install-guides/cmake/) build tool.
- A C++ compiler with C++17 support.
- A build system [GNU Make](https://www.gnu.org/software/make/) or [Ninja](https://ninja-build.org/).
- A documentation generator [Doxygen](https://www.doxygen.nl/).

### Summary
You’ll build and test a modern C++ matrix library on an Arm-based machine with CMake and GoogleTest. First, you’ll configure a C++17 toolchain and add unit tests. Then, you’ll implement matrix construction, assignment, addition, subtraction, and multiplication, keeping traversal separate from data processing. You’ll choose a build system and balance error checking with performance before validating the library with consistent builds and passing tests.

### Frequently asked questions
**Which C++ compiler should I use and which standard is required?**
Use a compiler with C++17 support. Both Clang and GCC work for this Learning Path.

**Should I use GNU Make or Ninja for the build?**
Either GNU Make or Ninja works with CMake. Choose one and use it consistently across builds.

**What result should I expect after the first build and test run?**
Expect the project to build successfully, and the unit tests to run without failures. At this stage, you can construct, assign, and print `Matrix` objects.

**Which matrix operations do I implement and how should I structure them?**
Implement addition, subtraction, and multiplication. Keep traversal separate from data processing so you can compose functionality and test components independently.

**How should I approach error handling while implementing the library?**
Balance safety and performance for your use case. Trusted, curated data can use different checks from untrusted input, so choose the validation level accordingly.