As scientists and engineers, we use compilers almost every day. Have you ever wondered what happens behind the scenes when you compile your code? Ever wondered about the exact meaning of a parse error? In this course, you will undertake the rewarding challenge of implementing a compiler! The skill set acquired during the semester will include several compiler-related tools and an understanding of the theory behind compilation. A significant part of the course consists of writing a compiler using the C programming language and software tools such as lex and yacc.

Course Announcements.

• Here is our syllabus
• Please download the Tiger compiler modules
• Feel free to provide anonymous feedback at any time
• Compiler Wars: December 10! (Submission details under PA8.) Game Day

Course Topics.

Below is a rough course outline.

• Structure of Compilers
• Lexical Analysis (Scanning)
• Syntactic Analysis (Parsing)
• Parse Trees, and Abstract Syntax Trees
• Semantic Analysis
• Scoping
• Symbol Tables
• Type Checking
• Activation Records
• Intermediate Code
• Instruction Selection
• Dataflow Analysis
• Register Allocation
• Optimizations

Prereqs.

C or better in CS 333 and CS 340 (or consent of the instructor).

Required Text.

Modern Compiler Implementation in C, by Andrew Appel, ISBN 0-521-60765-5
IMPORTANT: When you get your book, be sure to apply the corrections listed on the book's website.