Why Study Compilers
Use knowledge to:
- understand how compilers work (use them better)
- gain experience with building complex software
- build compiler for your next great language
- extend language with a new construct you need
- adapt existing compiler to new target platform (e.g. embedded CPU)
- regular expression handling in editors, grep utilities
- build an XML parsing library
- process complex input box in an application (expression evaluator)
- do simple natural language processing (parse sentences)
- prepare for Software Analysis and Verification
Prove that you got the knowledge
- Obtain 6 credits
- pass GRE Subject Exam (e.g. questions on LR parsing)
Most importantly:
- Have fun!