NullScript

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Basic Concepts ​

NullScript is a playful, parody programming language that compiles to JavaScript. It maintains full JavaScript compatibility while providing fun, expressive alternatives to standard keywords.

Philosophy ​

NullScript embraces the philosophy that programming should be enjoyable and expressive. It takes familiar JavaScript concepts and wraps them in more playful, memorable syntax without sacrificing functionality or performance.

Key Principles ​

1. JavaScript Compatibility ​

  • Every NullScript program compiles to valid JavaScript
  • No runtime dependencies or overhead
  • Seamless integration with existing JavaScript projects

2. Fun-First Design ​

  • Keywords are chosen for memorability and expressiveness
  • Syntax encourages creative, readable code
  • Maintains professional functionality with playful presentation

3. Zero Learning Curve ​

  • If you know JavaScript, you already know NullScript
  • Keywords map 1:1 to JavaScript equivalents
  • No new concepts to learn, just different ways to express them

Core Concepts ​

Function Declarations ​

Instead of function, use run:

javascript
// NullScript
run greet(name) {
  return `Hello, ${name}!`;
}

// Compiles to JavaScript
function greet(name) {
  return `Hello, ${name}!`;
}

Variable Declarations ​

Use fixed for constants and let for variables:

javascript
// NullScript
fixed PI = 3.14159;
let counter = 0;

// Compiles to JavaScript
const PI = 3.14159;
let counter = 0;

Control Flow ​

Express conditions with whatever and otherwise:

javascript
// NullScript
whatever (age >= 18) {
  speak.say("Adult");
} otherwise {
  speak.say("Minor");
}

// Compiles to JavaScript
if (age >= 18) {
  console.log("Adult");
} else {
  console.log("Minor");
}

Console Output ​

Use speak.say() instead of console.log():

javascript
// NullScript
speak.say("Hello, World!");
speak.scream("Error message");

// Compiles to JavaScript
console.log("Hello, World!");
console.error("Error message");

File Extension ​

NullScript uses the .ns file extension to distinguish NullScript files from regular JavaScript files. This makes it easy to identify and organize your code.

Compilation Process ​

  1. Parse: NullScript parser reads .ns files
  2. Transform: Keywords are mapped to JavaScript equivalents
  3. Generate: Clean, readable JavaScript is output
  4. Execute: Standard JavaScript runtime executes the code

The compilation is transparent - you get the same performance as writing JavaScript directly, but with more expressive syntax.

Integration ​

NullScript integrates seamlessly with:

  • Node.js projects
  • Browser applications
  • Build tools (Webpack, Vite, etc.)
  • Testing frameworks (Jest, Mocha, etc.)
  • Package managers (npm, yarn, pnpm)

Since NullScript compiles to JavaScript, it works everywhere JavaScript works.

Next Steps ​

Now that you understand the basic concepts, explore: