Programming Basics: 1st Generation Languages

Study Notes

1st Generation: Machine Language
- Utilizes binary code consisting of zeros and ones
- Directly understood and executed by computers
- Machine dependent and classified as low-level language
2nd Generation: Assembly Language
- Employs mnemonics or short words for commands
- Must be translated to machine code using an assembler
- Also categorized as low-level language; examples include TASM and MASM
3rd Generation: High-Level Language
- More abstract, less dependent on specific computer architecture
- Closer to human language; easier to read, write, and maintain
- Requires a compiler to convert source code to machine code
- Examples include FORTRAN, BASIC, COBOL, PASCAL, C, C++, ALGOL, ADA, JAVA
4th Generation: Object-Oriented Programming Language
- Codes are organized around objects
- Event-driven, where outcomes are triggered by events
- Examples include JAVA, C+, C#, Visual Basic, VB.NET
5th Generation: Logic Programming
- Focused on problem-solving within constraints and rules
- Involves artificial intelligence concepts with knowledge bases
- Examples include PROLOG, MERCURY, LISP

Syntax Errors
- Occur when language rules are not followed
Semantic Errors
- Result from inappropriate use of program statements
Logical Errors
- Happen when the program deviates from intended specifications
Compile Time Errors
- Arise during compilation due to syntax or type-related issues
Runtime Errors
- Occur during execution, often caused by unexpected conditions (e.g., division by zero)

An artificial language created to communicate instructions to machines
Used for developing programs that govern machine behavior and articulate algorithms accurately
Functions as software for crafting additional software

Imperative/Procedural Programming
- Involves commanding the system through explicit instructions
- Focuses on program states and actions that alter these states