CONTENTS
We are so happy you are here! We would like to extend a warm welcome to all who may have an interest in computer programming.
Whether you are a newcomer or a veteran cosmic rocker, it’s here where you not only can learn to program a computer as did the early pioneers in computing, but will learn to develop, create, and extend your very own programming language.
The purpose for MyTIL is to teach anyone who has an interest in programming a computer, the fundamental understanding of how computers work, what they can do, and how useful they can be as tools to enhance one’s life. In addition, once you develop your very own TIL, you will have a significant understanding of how other programming languages work and can leverage your ability to earn and work within the many computer-related fields.
You may be wondering what MyTIL is. Well, TIL stands for a Threaded Interpretive Language. A TIL is used to program a computer to perform a certain set of tasks. The designation of the word MyTIL is to distinguish one person’s TIL from another’s. In other words, when you develop your own TIL — MyTIL that is, it will have your own keyword names and processes which you create from your perspective. Another person may use different keywords and processes that suit their way of thinking even though the same task may be completed by the computer.
The language supports structured programming by its very nature. In order to use a keyword it must already be defined in the dictionary when building new keywords. The language supports integer math ( +, -, etc.), relation operations (>,<, =, etc.), and structured decisions (if-then-else, begin-end, while-loop, etc.) However, additional functionality can be added as one is free to extend the language keywords depending on one's need. All of the above math, relational, and decision keywords are each defined as keywords within the language and are part of the language itself. The beauty of the language is by adding new keywords you could grow it to control your home using voice control, monitor your goals with tracking, or control a robot. Actually, anything a computer could do, could be done in the language. (Of course one could use another language to accomplish the same task, but I ask what is the fun in that.)
It’s very important to understand as one proceeds to read, process, and digest the following information; one must not skip any of the subject matter. In other words, if your eyes are starting to glaze over and the concept is meaningless, then additional learning effort, or perhaps some rest time for digesting, may be needed to arrive at an understanding of the concept. And, as many before you, you might realize that “programming” may not be for you and the concepts are too vague to grasp, such as in advanced mathematics and calculus. However, perseverance has paid off for many in their achievements.
As you proceed, we will visit each subject and explain what it is, how it works, and why its understanding is needed.
Let the Adventure Begin!LEE's CORNER