[0.0] Introduction

05/05/2021 • 10 minutes to read

Programming languages are nothing more than a human-friendly format for writing computer programs. Languages are often viewed as some mystical being that just converts all your source files into executables or some form of application, and if you're reading this book, I assume that you also think the same. So let's not waste any more time and dig right in.

The job of a programming language is to provide a simple method for describing computations to a computer, think of it as an intimate conversation between you and the computer, only it's not very intimate, because you're demanding the computer with a set of instructions. This book aims to give you a proper understanding of a few compiler designs and implementations. Before you know it, you'll have a full grasp on the conceptual process of compiler designs, and be able to make your own from scratch!

In this chapter, you'll be getting to know the different forms of language translators, a brief overview of basic compiler structures and building blocks, a small step into the realm of optimizers (don't be frightened, they aren't that bad), and end with a small overview of all the key programming language concepts that will benefit you in your journey of compiler development, and computer science career as a whole.

Note: (literally, there's a quiz)

At the end of each sub-chapter, there is a "quiz" or "mini-review" for what was covered, it's highly encouraged to take notes, and make sure you read closely to get the most out of this book.