Compiler project 1.0.0

Question

yet another exciting project, i have being assigned a project to build a simple compiler in c++, i dont know how simple it has to be, how should the blue print of my compiler look like? i just need help with general ideas in developing the compiler. what are the common tools i need for this project to be a success??

Answer 1

join our project :
https://code.sololearn.com/W9G1YlB8mozL/?ref=app
else
1 what do you mean by compiler?
even python has a compiler
2
a assuming to assembly compilers,
b assuming you know assembly
see your target platform.
as you will have to deal with assembly, you might want to see how assembly works and link on different platforms
3 if simple, you might want to write your own lexer
4 if simple, your own parser is fun
i can continue but please give more info particularly 1

Answer 2

You could use the YACC (Yet Another Compiler Compiler) and LEX (Lexical Analyzer) tools to build your first compiler.
http://dinosaur.compilertools.net
http://tldp.org/HOWTO/Lex-YACC-HOWTO-5.html

Answer 3

@Abdur, in a very simple expression evaluator that calculated a math expression. I have a code on SL that uses a lexer and a parser that does just that. I had to convert BNF syntax to create a recursive descent parser which is based in part on the code I have studied with YACC.

Answer 4

@Germain in that case you need a good brush up on compiler design / compiler theory
tutorials point just revamped it's section check that out
else,
i made a small tuto series :
https://www.sololearn.com/Discuss/549601/?ref=app
take a look !
our hub? it's on discord

Answer 5

@Abdur, what do you mean by that? ☺

Answer 6

1 have you used lex or yacc? @Karl?

Answer 7

@Abdur, yes a long time ago.

Answer 8

both @Karl?

Answer 9

@Abdur, yeah why?

Answer 10

so, in what context, which lang?
@Karl

Answer 11

no good
@Germain
these tools are good
but worthless if you don't understand what you are doing

Answer 12

@Abdur, you're right I guess. Just tought studying code generated from those tools could have helped.

Answer 13

i saw the link you posted,
it explains the steps, how things get done but someone might think that
lex == lexical analysis i.e. that lex analysis cannot be performed without lex

Answer 14

@karl T
lol lexer and yacc
it's easy to say while you increase the learning curve of the beginner
trite

Answer 15

@Karl
look you know what a recursive descent parser but did not see it fit that the asker might study those things
you straight suggested the use of tools
you did not care to assess the level of knowledge of the asker
you did well, just pointing out ... a point

Answer 16

Maybe this could help
https://www.sololearn.com/discuss/540958/?ref=app

Answer 17

@Abdur is it a complicated approach? i mean using lexer and yacc as a basic tool to learn compiler development

Answer 18

@Abdur that's true, maybe Karl can share his experience

Answer 19

@Abdur
give me tips on writing a simple parser and lexer

Answer 20

@Karl thanks for tips