Re: How to understand gcc

[mike stump <mrs at windriver dot com>]

I think you can get answers as varied as people are.  I'll just toss
out a few quick things that can keep you busy for 5 years learning.

> From: "David Rasmussen" <pinkfloydhomer@yahoo.com>
> To: <gcc@gcc.gnu.org>
> Date: Mon, 17 Dec 2001 23:51:19 +0100

> How can I learn how gcc works?

:-)  I like simple, to the point questions that have simple answers.
Unfortunately, yours is not.

> I have taken one compiler course at my university,

Good first step.  In addition, you can take advanced algorithms
classes, theory classes...  You can also go to the library and find
books on compilers and languages and read them all.

> and I own the "Dragon book"

I'd recommend reading and understanding it, if you haven't yet.  :-)

> But really, I would like to have some sort of general understanding
> about the design of gcc,

You didn't mention if you had read the gcc manual, see our web site,
under documentation, and manual.  If you have not, you should.  After
that, please read the comments in the code, after that please read the
code.  After that, try fixing 100 bugs or doing a port.  Your
understanding will improve when trying to fix bugs or while doing a
port.

Also helpful, write an interpreter and compiler from the ground up.

Lather, rinse, repeat.