This lecture covers the basics of input/output operations in C++, including interacting with the world through keyboard and screen, handling standard input and output streams, working with files, and formatting input/output data. The instructor explains the importance of integrating external data into programs, the necessity of input and output functions, and the process of saving program results for future use. Students will learn about input/output streams, file management, stream types, stream creation, file linking, stream closure, and formatted output options.