What are Interpreted Programming Languages?
- No Compilation: Instead of being translated into machine code all at once before execution (like compiled languages), interpreted languages are translated line by line as the program runs.
- The Interpreter: This is a special program that acts as a translator. It reads each line of your code and immediately executes the instructions.
- Flexibility: You can make changes to the code and see the results quickly without having to recompile the entire program.
Key Points for Exam Notes
- Examples:
- Python
- JavaScript
- Ruby
- PHP
- BASIC
- Advantages:
- Easy to learn and use: Great for beginners.
- Great for prototyping and testing: Make quick changes, see immediate results.
- Platform independence: Often run on different operating systems without changes (if the interpreter is available).
- Disadvantages:
- Slower execution: Translation at runtime can be slower than compiled code.
- Dependency on interpreter: The interpreter program needs to be installed on the machine to run the code.
Exam Note Tip:
Remember the phrase “Interpreted = Line-by-line translation”