so as to change the value of the int instead of changing the pointer's target?[/b]
You know, I think you're right. How's that for irony? Thanks for pointing it out.

What would you recommend as a good starting point for some actual work for somebody new to C++?
I've looked at possibly joining some open source projects and working on patching problems, would that be a good starting point, or not?[/b]
Myself, I spend a lot of time mucking around and making me own program - although it doesn't really have much use other than as a learning experience. I would reccomend you took a look at a project similar to one you'd like to try making, so when you do get stuck, you can see how "other people" do it.