If you're using the compiler as a learning tool (and it's great for that!) may I suggest giving GCC Explorer a go: http://gcc.godbolt.org/ http://gcc.godbolt.or

If you're using the compiler as a learning tool (and it's great for that!) may I suggest giving GCC Explorer a go: http://gcc.godbolt.org/ http://gcc.godbolt.org/ The name is deceptive; many compilers other than GCC are available. The turn around time of seeing how small snippets of code translate to assembly makes it pretty well suited to exploring assembly. Though it's my site, so usual author disclaimer here too! Also I find compiling small tests and then single stepping in assembly mode another way to really 'get' what instructions do.