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Generations of Programming Languages

Programming languages have evolved in five generations, each improving ease of use, efficiency, and human readability.

1. First Generation (1GL) – Machine Language

  • Written in binary (0s and 1s).
  • Directly understood by the computer.
  • Example: 10110011 00001111.
  • Advantage: Very fast execution.
  • Disadvantage: Difficult to learn, error-prone, machine-dependent.

2. Second Generation (2GL) – Assembly Language

  • Uses mnemonics (symbols and codes) instead of binary.
  • Requires an Assembler to convert into machine code.
  • Example: MOV A, 05 (move 5 into register A).
  • Easier than machine language but still hardware-dependent.

3. Third Generation (3GL) – High-Level Languages

  • Uses English-like statements (easy to learn).
  • Requires Compiler or Interpreter to convert into machine code.
  • Examples: C, C++, Java, FORTRAN, COBOL.
  • Advantage: Portable, structured, easier for humans.
  • Disadvantage: Slower than machine/assembly language.

4. Fourth Generation (4GL) – Problem-Oriented Languages

  • Focuses on what to do rather than how to do.
  • Used for database queries, report generation, business applications.
  • Examples: SQL, MATLAB, Oracle Reports.
  • Much faster for development and productivity.

5. Fifth Generation (5GL) – AI & Natural Language

  • Based on Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning, natural language processing.
  • Users can give instructions in natural language (like English).
  • Examples: Prolog, LISP, Python (AI applications).
  • Used in expert systems, robotics, speech recognition.

Low-Level vs High-Level Languages

FeatureLow-Level Language (1GL, 2GL)High-Level Language (3GL onwards)
DefinitionClose to hardware, machine-dependentClose to human language, machine-independent
TypesMachine language, Assembly languageC, C++, Java, Python, SQL
Execution SpeedVery fastSlower (requires translation)
Ease of UseHard to learn, error-proneEasy to learn, user-friendly
Translation NeededAssembler (for Assembly)Compiler/Interpreter
PortabilityNot portablePortable (can run on different systems)

✅ Summary for Exams

  • 1GL → Machine, 2GL → Assembly, 3GL → High-Level, 4GL → Database/Business, 5GL → AI.
  • Low-Level = Machine + Assembly (close to hardware).
  • High-Level = English-like, easy, portable, requires compiler/interpreter.