Introducing RelaxLang: A Beginner-Friendly Programming Language**

Dive into the fascinating world of programming language creation with RelaxLang, a newly developed, interpreted language designed for both beginners and seasoned programmers. Inspired by Crafting Interpreters and the Lox language, RelaxLang balances simplicity with powerful features.

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Why Choose RelaxLang?

RelaxLang offers a lightweight, accessible approach to programming, perfect for learning and basic scripting tasks. Developed using Java and C, it boasts:

• Dynamic Typing: Variable types are inferred at runtime, simplifying the coding process.
• First-Class Functions: Supports functional programming paradigms by treating functions as first-class citizens.
• Classes and Inheritance: Provides a straightforward way to implement object-oriented programming concepts.
• Built-in Standard Library: Offers readily available tools for string manipulation, array operations, and more.

Whether you're a novice programmer or an experienced developer seeking an educational tool, RelaxLang is a valuable resource.

Architectural Overview

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Key Features of RelaxLang

1. Dynamic Typing

RelaxLang's dynamic typing eliminates the need for explicit type declarations. The interpreter handles type inference, letting you focus on program logic.

<code>var name = "RelaxLang";  // String
var version = 1.0;       // Float
var isActive = true;     // Boolean

print(name);            // Output: RelaxLang
print(version);         // Output: 1.0
print(isActive);        // Output: true</code>

2. First-Class Functions

Functions in RelaxLang are highly flexible. They can be assigned to variables, used as arguments to other functions, and even returned as values.

<code>fun add(a, b) {
    return a + b;
}

var sum = add(5, 3);
print(sum);  // Output: 8

fun operate(func, x, y) {
    return func(x, y);
}

var result = operate(add, 10, 15);
print(result);  // Output: 25</code>

3. Classes and Inheritance

RelaxLang supports object-oriented programming principles, making it ideal for learning and practicing OOP techniques.

<code>class Animal {
    var name;

    init(name) {
        this.name = name;
    }

    fun speak() {
        print(this.name + " makes a sound.");
    }
}

class Dog extends Animal {
    fun bark() {
        print("Woof!");
    }
}

var myDog = Dog("Buddy");
myDog.speak();  // Output: Buddy makes a sound.
myDog.bark();    // Output: Woof!</code>

4. Control Flow

RelaxLang provides intuitive if-else statements and loops for managing program flow.

<code>var age = 18;

if (age >= 18) {
    print("You are an adult.");
} else {
    print("You are a minor.");
}

for (var i = 0; i < 5; i = i + 1) {
    print(i);
}</code>

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Getting Started

1. Prerequisites

• Java JDK 11 or later
• (Optional) Docker for containerized deployment

2. Installation

Clone the Repository:

<code class="language-bash">git clone https://github.com/Ravikisha/RelaxLang.git
cd RelaxLang</code>

Compile:

<code class="language-bash">javac src/*.java</code>

3. Running RelaxLang

JAR File:

<code class="language-bash">java -jar lox.jar</code>

Docker:

<code class="language-bash">docker pull ravikishan63392/relaxlang:latest
docker run -it ravikishan63392/relaxlang:latest</code>

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Example Usage

A simple RelaxLang script:

<code>fun greet(name) {
    print("Hello, " + name + "!");
}

greet("World");</code>

Run it using:

<code>var name = "RelaxLang";  // String
var version = 1.0;       // Float
var isActive = true;     // Boolean

print(name);            // Output: RelaxLang
print(version);         // Output: 1.0
print(isActive);        // Output: true</code>

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Technical Details

RelaxLang's implementation involves lexical analysis, parsing (creating an Abstract Syntax Tree), and interpretation. The use of Java ensures platform independence, while C provides opportunities for low-level performance enhancements.

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Resources and Collaboration

Docker Image:

RelaxLang Docker Image

GitHub Repository:

RelaxLang on GitHub

Contributions are welcome! Please refer to the repository's contributing guidelines.

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Conclusion

RelaxLang is more than just a programming language; it's a learning experience in language design. Experiment, learn, and enjoy the journey!

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