M2: Lexical Analysis

This second modules provides an overview of the lexical analysis component of a compiler. We discuss how one implements this component by hand or using an auto generated tool.

Pre-recorded Lectures

Note: Professor Samuels will state on Ed when the precorded videos are ready to be viewed each week for a module.

The pre-recorded lectures are available here: M2 Videos. You can also find the videos under the “Panopto” tab on the MPCS 51300 canvas site.

The lectures are a series of approx 15-20 minute videos. Please come back here weekly as the videos will be updated if a module spans multiple weeks. This module includes the following videos:

• 2.0 - Automating NFA Construction

• 2.1 - Converting a NFA to DFA

• 2.2 - Coding a Scanner

The slides presented in these videos are accessible in the upstream repository.

Resources/Readings

• The slides and code presented in this module are accessible in the upstream repository.

• Engineering a Compiler readings

  • Chapter 2.1 - 2.5

• Go By Example

  • Pointers Section

• Understanding Pointers in Go

Synchronous Sessions (In-person Lecture)

As a reminder here are the dates and times for the synchronous session for this module:

• Dates/Times

  • Wednesday January 15th 10:20am-12:20pm

• Session Outline

  • Overview of Lexical Analysis

  • Introduction to Regular Expressions

  • Finite Automata: NFAs and DFAs

Assignment

Assignments are always due on Friday evenings.

• Milestone #2, due January 24th at 11:59pm CDT