Visualization of compile time errors in a Java compatible visual language

Abstract

The Java programming language eases the creation of programs, as compared to textual languages such as C++, through use of features such as definite assignment, type safety, pointer restrictions and exception handling. However, errors resulting from the incorrect use of these features are hidden from the programmer when using a standard text based editor until they are detected at compile time. The programmer is forced to edit, compile, and re-edit the program to correct the errors detected during compilation, resulting in inefficiencies in the development process. A Java compatible visual syntax is briefly introduced. We then focus on environment features made possible by the visual presentation of the language which provide for the visualization of errors resulting from incorrect use of the following features: definite assignment, static type checking and exception handling.