programming-languages

Figuring out the right language for the job: branching out from C#

I work in a Microsoft environment, so I can use my C# hammer on any nails I come across. That being said, what languages (compiled, interpreted, scripting, functional, any types!) complement knowing C#, and for what purposes? For example, I've moved a lot of script functionality away from compiled console apps and into Powershell scripts...

How to write a self reproducing code (prints the source on exec)?

I have seen a lot of C/C++ based solutions to this problem where we have to write a program that upon execution prints its own source. some solutions -- http://www.cprogramming.com/challenges/solutions/self_print.html Quine Page solution in many languages There are many more solutions on the net, each different from the other. I won...

Why isn't LISP more widely used?

I've heard a lot of people espouse the capabilities of LISP and its omnipotent macros. If LISP is such a great language, why isn't it being adopted more? What problems is LISP facing that is holding it back from (re)emerging as popular language? Is it something about LISP itself ("those brackets!" isn't the answer, is it?!), or its compe...

What makes Ometa special?

Ometa is "a new object-oriented language for pattern matching." I've encountered pattern matching in languages like Oz tools to parse grammars like Lexx/Yacc or Pyparsing before. Despite looking at example code, reading discussions, and talking to a friend, I still am not able to get a real understanding of what makes Ometa special (or ...

Are units of measurement unique to F#?

I was reading Andrew Kennedy's blog post series on units of measurement in F# and it makes a lot of sense in a lot of cases. Are there any other languages that have such a system? Edit: To be more clear, I mean the flexible units of measurement system where you can define your own arbitrarily. ...

Can you do Desktop Development using JavaScript?

I know there's JScript.NET, but it isn't the same as the JavaScript we know from the web. Does anyone know if there are any JavaScript based platforms/compilers for desktop development? Most specifically Windows desktop development. ...

Given sufficient experience in C/C++, Python and Java, what would be another good language to learn, and why?

I have some free time on my hands and am interested in broadening my horizons. My background is in Python, C/C++ and Java. Does anyone have any recommendations on a new language to learn, and why? ...

Learning C, C++ or Delphi ?

I have been developing for about 8 years, and mainly come from a Web Background. I have extensively used the .Net Framework for development the last 5 odd years, including Web, Windows and Mobile. I have a good understanding of C# and VB, VB.Net I am thinking of learning a new language, and based on the interest I have understanding how...

Did you ever switch from one programming language to another?

The stereotypical programmer is very keen on writing software in one particular programming language and is very fanatic about defending their programming language in any way they can, without being realistic about whether their programming language is the best tool for the job. The other kind of programmer can take a step back and swit...

Are bugs easier to produce in one language than in another?

Are some programming languages, by their nature, easier to write programs with less bugs in than others? For a fair comparison, assume that the programmer is considered "skilled" in that particular language, however long that may have taken him. I'm mainly wondering about the influence of conceptual differences, like: manual memory ma...

What are the advantages of using Objective-C over C++

I have heard mention of Objective-C but I have never used it myself. I was curious what everyones opinion of it was in general and also in relation to C++. Are there any types of projects where it would be more useful or less useful? ...

Create a small 'window-form' application that runs anywhere

I work in the embedded world, using mainly C and no GUI at all (because there is no display screen). Moving over to the non-embedded world, in which I have nearly no experience, what is the best programming environment (langauge/IDE/etc) for me to build a simple window-form application that will run on all the common platforms: windows/...

Difference between managed c++ and c++

The topics title is actually my question. And the second question is: When do I use what of these two? ...

Multi-Core and Concurrency - Languages, Libraries and Development Techniques

The CPU architecture landscape has changed, multiple cores is a trend that will change how we have to develop software. I've done multi-threaded development in C, C++ and Java, I've done multi-process development using various IPC mechanisms. Traditional approaches to using threads doesn't seem to make it easy, for the developer, to ut...

Is Delphi still a viable choice for development?

... can this still be a good career choice? ...

Programming Languages and Design Patterns

Hello, different programming languages have different features or lack certain features. Design patterns are a way to work around those shortcomings. I have seen the books and lists about design patterns in static, object oriented languages (Java, C++), but also the Videos about design patterns in Python. I'm interested in to see some ...

What's the first thing you 'trip up on' when learning a new language.

So... You've sat down and got a blank sheet in front of you, and a browser open in the background with access to the manual. What in your opinion makes you scratch your head and think Now how... See also: Easiest language to start with Best ways to teach a beginner to program? ...

What would you write if you wanted to learn a new language?

I have found the easiest way to learn a new language is to write something in it. Usually this works best when I find myself having to write a fairly involved application for my job, however sometimes you just want to pick up some new skills. So my question is what kind of "sample" applications would you write if your sole goal was to ...

What is declarative programming?

I keep hearing this term tossed around in several different contexts. What is it? ...

Haskell newbie: use layout or not? What are the pro's and con's (use examples)

I cant seem to find much info on haskells layout features, as I understand it is something like pythons formatting requirements except that is optional. How can I choose not to use this option correctly? Would it be a good idea to start without it so that I get a solid feel for the language itself? ...