blakemor@software.org (Alex Blakemore) (07/02/90)
This message is primarily intended for Tucker Taft, whose email
address I misplaced. I'ld prefer not to start a net war over
this, so if you feel strongly about this, please send suggestions
on the new RM style to him (as he requested) or flames on this
article to me by mail.
Alex Blakemore
blakemore@software.org
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Dear Tucker Taft,
A while back you asked for comments regarding the RM coding style.
I agree it is important since many people adopt it by default.
I feel strongly that the following small change would have a big
effect on LRM aesthetics (and make a nicer impression on those new to Ada)
PLEASE REDUCE THE HUGE AMOUNT OF UPPER CASE LETTERS. IT IS HARD TO
READ, LOOKS UGLY, AND IS REMINISCENT OF THE OLD FORTRAN DAYS.
Some people like initial caps, capitalized exception names and labels etc.
I prefer almost complete lower case, except in comments (where rules
of English apply) It doesnt really matter - but surely not every
identifier should be all caps.
Please, please, please:
1. Keep all lower case keywords.
2. Switch to lower case or initial caps for identifiers.
3. Keep words separated by underscores (no ThisIsALongIdentifier)
4. Minimize the number of deviations to the lower case style
(e.g. exception names, short abbreviations etc)
5. Be consistent.
Suggestion 2 is the only change from the current RM style.
Thanks for requesting comments
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Alex Blakemore Internet: blakemore@software.org
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