GCSE Computer Science: Programming Languages and Translators Guide

High-level languages

High-level languages (like Python or Java) use syntax closer to human language, making them easier to read and write, but they need translating before a computer's processor can run them.

Low-level languages

Low-level languages, like assembly language, are closer to machine code and give more direct control over hardware, but are harder to read, write and debug.

Compilers

A compiler translates the entire high-level program into machine code before running it, producing a standalone executable file that runs quickly but must be recompiled after any code changes.

Interpreters

An interpreter translates and runs a program line by line as it executes, making it easier to spot errors during development, but generally slower to run than compiled code.

Common mistakes

• Assuming high-level languages run directly on hardware without translation.
• Mixing up how compilers (translate everything first) and interpreters (translate line by line) work.
• Thinking low-level languages are always a worse choice, ignoring their speed and hardware control advantages.