Does learning embedded C help without having any knowledge about microcontrollers?

yes, it does help... let me tell you how... [Note: all my questions are purely based on what tools you are using] 1. Learning micro controllers and going through all those long theory and architecture sessions are boring. 2. Learning microcontroller and the digital circuit will be helpful if you are trying to implement your own logics using ICs maximum times or if you are trying to use some peripherials in your project. 3. Now a day school kids are learning embedded C, do you think it's good to teach them microcontroller's architecture? I am sure its a No. 4. Learning by doing will always enlighten your interest about the subject so when you do something working and made by you, this will help you increase your interest in your subject. 5. You don't require controller knowledge unless you are making a hyper optimised project that requires you to really access controllers memory organisation or register architecture. No important thing. As I clearly mentioned that my answer is totally based on the type of tools you are using. So if you are talking about programming an 8051 controller by writing C code in Keil C software or using assembly language... you are trapped you really need to learn controllers before making your hands dirty in few level of programming. But the world is changing and adopting new tools... these tools don't require any prior knowledge of the architecture of controllers for example in the case of Arduino. Someone requires fast results and good productivity... Arduino is your tool. One most important thing about learning by doing id when your interest in the subject grows your craving of getting more knowledge also grow... and when this happens once you are interested in the subject you will definitely find ways or learn controller by yourself later on. which I always recommend. My way is "DO - LEARN - REDO" so when you do it first time it increase your interest then you learn more and do it like a professional. :) Enjoy... read less