How to Compile Your Language – Guide to implement a modern compiler for language

This guide serves as a practical introduction to designing a programming language and implementing a modern compiler. It emphasizes the importance of defining the language's purpose, whether for systems programming like Rust or targeting AI developers like Mojo. The goal is to showcase algorithms and techniques from popular languages such as C++, Kotlin, and Rust. The guide explains how to create platform-specific executables using the LLVM compiler infrastructure, which is utilized by these languages.

Every programming language must establish an entry point for execution, typically the main() function. The guide discusses the significance of maintaining recognizable syntax for developers familiar with existing languages, avoiding confusion with unconventional syntax.

A compiler consists of three main components: the frontend, optimizer, and backend. The frontend implements the language, checks for errors, and converts the code into an intermediate representation (IR). The optimizer then enhances the program's efficiency before the backend translates it into executable instructions tailored for specific targets, such as x86 or ARM.

While learning all aspects of compiler design is possible, it is not necessary to create a successful language. Many modern languages rely on LLVM for optimization and code generation. This guide focuses on implementing the frontend, which includes the lexer, parser, and semantic analyzer, providing a structured approach to language compilation. The source code for the compiler is available on GitHub for further exploration.