Re: Top 10 Language Constructs (Ada)

["Samuel T. Harris" <samuel_t_harris@Raytheon.com>]

Bruno Gustavs wrote:
> 
> What do you think are the top ten language constructs in Ada?
> Please don't answer in terms of OO concepts, but try to restrict
> yourself to those statements you really use to cope with your
> daily work.
> 
> Curious why I'm asking this question? In spite of all requirements
> engineering effort we know exactly *how* to solve problems
> with computer languages but know fairly, *what* we're doing
> during this process.
> 
> Regards
> Bruno Gustavs

My number one is block statements.

Being able to arbitrarily introduce a new declarative region
has been invaluable to me in avoiding numerous kinds of coding
errors. Having to place all working variables within the subprogram
declarative region can cause many kinds of problems. The more
complex the subprogram the greater the need. There are also
many situations where one simply does not have enough information
to satify a variable declaration (e.g. string constraints)
until later in the algorithm.

The localization of the scope of temporary variables is a very
attractive style of coding for me. The different logic paths
within the algorithm need only concern themselves with just
the variables each needs. Less clutter, less fuss, less muss!

-- 
Samuel T. Harris, Principal Engineer
Raytheon, Aerospace Engineering Services
"If you can make it, We can fake it!"