1. Static Structure
imperative / any
Representation
Collected by Peter Donaldson — Own practice, Peter Donaldson and Quintin Cutts
The notional machine is not an entirely separate representation from the code but acts as a secondary notation to add invisible aspects of the code execution.
| PL | NM |
|---|---|
| control flow | arrows, superimposed on the code |
| expression | rectangular outline around expression, superimposed on the code |
Static view of control flow (possible paths), identification of expressions.
Developing understanding of how basic programming constructs work.
Code needs carefully selected and formatted to enable annotation.
Created by Peter Donaldson and Quintin Cutts / PLAN C project.
First, mark code with control flow paths and parts of the code containing expressions. Second, start at the top of the program and execute each line adding or looking up any necessary information from the memory table, expression evaluation or output areas.
Do you have feedback on this notional machine? Did you find a mistake, or do you have a request for improvement? You can create an Issue on GitHub, where the description is hosted. This way we can see your feedback and address it.
For this, you need a GitHub account. Then follow this link to see the source file of this page. In there, click the ... left of the highlighted line, then pick "Reference in a new issue".
A notional machine is a pedagogic device to assist the understanding of some aspect of programs or programming.
