MIRFAC: a compiler based on standard mathematical notation and plain English

Abstract

A pilot version of the compiler MIRFAC, now in the operation, is described. The chief features of the system, which is intended for the solution of scientific problems, are the presentation of mathematical formulas entirely in standard textbook notation. The use of plain English for organizational instructions, automatic error diagnosis indicating the actual location of the error in the uncompiled program, and an attempt to minimize that fragmentation of the original problem statement which is a normal feature of programming systems.