A computer can only run instructions written in machine code, so programs written by people must be translated first. This lesson explains what compilers, interpreters and assemblers do, how they differ, and the features an Integrated Development Environment gives a programmer to write and debug code.
Slide 1 / 4
Why code must be translated
A processor can only execute instructions written in machine code, which is made up of binary patterns of ones and zeros.
People write programs in high-level languages such as Python because these are easier for a human to read, write and understand.
High-level code must therefore be translated into machine code before the processor can carry out the instructions.
A translator is system software that converts program code from one form into another, most often into machine code the computer can run.
Check you've got it
0/4
1. Why must a program written in a high-level language be translated before it runs?
2. Which statement correctly describes how a compiler works?
3. What does an assembler translate?
4. Which IDE feature helps a programmer locate and understand mistakes as they type code?