An algo for generating code callgraphs

Question

I am working on a project which requires generating some metrices of a code (it can be C/C++/Java/Python). One of the metrices can be that I create a callgraph after parsing the code entered (the programs are expected to be small - probably under 1000L).

As of now, I am looking for a way to create a program (it can be C/Python) which can take as input a file (C/C++/Python/Java) and then create a textual output containing approximate calling sequence as well as tokens in the code file.

As of now, I have looked at some other tools which do the same thing - like splint, pylint, codeviz etc. So, I have two ways of solving my problem:

1. Read and understand the algorithm these tools use (tokenization->graph generation etc)
2. Or, have a basic algo (something like very high level steps) and then sit down to create each of them as I want them to be.

I know, re-inventing the wheel is not a good idea, but, I would still like to give option (2) a shot. Only issue is, currently I am a blank.

My question: Does any one have any knowhow about how to create code graphs? Any hints as to what I should do? Any top levels steps which I can follow?

Thanks a lot.

Answer 1

pycallgraph does it (in Python, for Python only) and it should be easier to understand and adapt than bigger programs like the ones you mention.