Learn to build configuration file readers, data readers, model-driven
code generators, source-to-source translators, source analyzers, and
interpreters. You don't need a background in computer science--ANTLR
creator Terence Parr demystifies language implementation by breaking it
down into the most common design patterns. Pattern by pattern, you'll
learn the key skills you need to implement your own computer
languages.
Knowing how to create domain-specific languages (DSLs) can give you a
huge productivity boost. Instead of writing code in a general-purpose
programming language, you can first build a custom language tailored to
make you efficient in a particular domain.
The key is understanding the common patterns found across language
implementations. Language Design Patterns identifies and condenses the
most common design patterns, providing sample implementations of each.
The pattern implementations use Java, but the patterns themselves are
completely general. Some of the implementations use the well-known ANTLR
parser generator, so readers will find this book an excellent source of
ANTLR examples as well. But this book will benefit anyone interested in
implementing languages, regardless of their tool of choice. Other
language implementation books focus on compilers, which you rarely need
in your daily life. Instead, Language Design Patterns shows you patterns
you can use for all kinds of language applications.
You'll learn to create configuration file readers, data readers,
model-driven code generators, source-to-source translators, source
analyzers, and interpreters. Each chapter groups related design patterns
and, in each pattern, you'll get hands-on experience by building a
complete sample implementation. By the time you finish the book, you'll
know how to solve most common language implementation problems.
