Building a Programming Language: From Calculator to Factorial

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Today on Computerphile, the team delves into the thrilling world of creating a programming language. With the goal of building a full-fledged language, they start by crafting an interpreter, a vital component in this ambitious endeavor. The team opts to kick things off by developing a basic calculator using reverse polish notation, a clever approach that simplifies mathematical expressions and utilizes a stack machine for efficient computation. Through this method, they lay the groundwork for more complex features to come.
Moving forward, the team tackles the introduction of variables, a key element that distinguishes a mere calculator from a comprehensive programming language. By enabling the definition and utilization of variables like X and Y within expressions, the language begins to take shape. With a focus on simplicity and functionality, they ensure that the interpreter can handle variable assignments and retrievals seamlessly, enhancing the language's capabilities.
As the team continues to enhance their language implementation, they set their sights on incorporating loops and branches, essential features for creating dynamic and versatile programs. By introducing looping mechanisms and conditional statements, they pave the way for more intricate functionalities, such as the factorial function. Through iterative refinement and meticulous attention to detail, they expand the language's capabilities, transforming it into a robust tool for programming enthusiasts and learners alike.
With a flair for innovation and a penchant for problem-solving, the Computerphile team navigates the complexities of language design with finesse and ingenuity. Each step in the development process brings them closer to their goal of crafting a sophisticated programming language from scratch. By combining technical expertise with a creative approach, they demonstrate the artistry and complexity involved in building a language that empowers users to express their ideas and solve problems effectively.

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Image copyright Youtube

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