| A programming language reference manual is a definitive document that completely describes the syntax and semantics of a programming language. Visual programming languages use graphics, drawings, and icons as a means of programming. When writing a language reference manual for a visual programming language, the following questions arise: (1) what specification method should be used for visual language syntax, (2) what formal method should be used for visual language semantics, and (3) how should the information be presented? The objective of this thesis is to answer these questions. To achieve this goal, existing specification methods are reviewed, analyzed, and compared. In addition, existing reference manuals are reviewed to determine the elements to include in a reference manual and to determine the order in which these elements are presented. Picture Layout Grammars (PLGs), Colored Petri-nets (CPNs), and a top-down presentation style are selected for syntax specification, semantic specification, and information presentation, respectively. These methods are selected based on the criteria of completeness, clarity, naturalness and realism. An example SLAM language reference manual is developed using the selected specification methods and presentation style. In most cases, the selection criteria are achieved. The degree to which the criteria are met is examined, modifications are suggested, and future research activities are recommended. |
