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Everything about Code as data

Principle of interchangeability of data and code

In computer science, the expression code as data refers to the idea that source code written in a programming language can be manipulated as data, such as a sequence of characters or an abstract syntax tree (AST), and it has an execution semantics only in the context of a given compiler or interpreter. The notion is often used in the context of Lisp-like languages that use S-expressions as their main syntax, as writing programs using nested lists of symbols makes the interpretation of the program as an AST quite transparent. Wikipedia →

🧭 Start here: a 6-step reading path

  1. Read the overview: Code as dataA 5-minute orientation
  2. Skim a recent paper: Transformer Based Sentiment Analysis on Code Mixed DataInfluential work since 2022
  3. Pick up a classic book: The Columbia guide to online styleThe most-reprinted book on the subject
  4. Read the landmark paper: Detecting code smells using industry-relevant dataCited 37 times
  5. Go sideways: Syntax (programming languages)A closely related topic
  6. Go sideways: Programming languageA closely related topic

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🗂️ The subject at a glance

  1. Data as Code

🏆 Landmark papers (most cited)

🆕 Influential since 2022

📚 Books worth reading

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