Refactor: Make Block documentation syntax-focused

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2025-09-22 16:40:12 -07:00
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commit 0874f5941d

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@@ -108,10 +108,10 @@ version = 1.1 // Assignment
## The Block: Unifying Objects and Functions
In Hi, the distinction between objects and functions is eliminated. Both concepts are unified into a single, foundational structure: the **Block** (\`{}\`). A Block is a sequence of expressions that can hold data, executable code, or both, making it a powerful tool for building complex structures.
The **Block** (\`{}\`) is Hi's foundational structure, unifying data objects and executable functions. It is a sequence of expressions that can be invoked with \`()\`.
### As a Data Structure (Object)
When a Block contains primarily named declarations (\`key: value\`), it behaves like a traditional object or dictionary. A \`#\` prefix denotes a private property, making it inaccessible from outside the block.
A block can hold \`key: value\` pairs. A \`#\` prefix denotes a private property.
\`\`\`javascript
player: {
@@ -124,58 +124,45 @@ _(player.hp) // -0 (null) because #hp is private
\`\`\`
### As Executable Code (Function)
When a Block is invoked via \`()\`, its sequence of expressions is executed.
Invoking a block with \`()\` executes its expressions. The value of the last expression is implicitly returned.
\`\`\`javascript
// Simple invocation
sayHi: { _("Hi") }
sayHi() // Invokes the block, prints "Hi"
sayHi() // Prints "Hi"
greet: (name) { _("Hi, " + name) }
greet("Orion") // Prints "Hi, Orion"
// With parameters and return value
add: (a, b) { a + b }
_(add(2, 3)) // Prints 5
\`\`\`
### The Hybrid Block: Data and Logic Combined
The true power of Hi's design emerges when a Block contains both data declarations and executable statements. This creates a hybrid structure that can act as a stateful object, a function, or a factory for creating other objects.
When a Block is invoked (\`()\`), its expressions are executed in sequence. Any data declarations inside are re-initialized with each call, making Blocks natural factories. The value of the Block's *last expression* is implicitly returned.
### As a Hybrid (Factory/Class)
A block can contain both data and logic. When invoked, its internal declarations are re-initialized, making it a natural factory. The context symbol \`@\` can be used to return the newly created instance.
\`\`\`javascript
// This block is a factory for creating player objects.
createPlayer: (name) {
// 1. Data declarations are initialized on each call
name: name,
hp: 100
// 2. An action is performed
_("Created " + name)
// 3. The last expression returns the context (@),
// which is the newly configured block.
@
@ // Return the new block instance
}
// Invoking the block executes its logic
player1: createPlayer("Orion")
// Accessing the data from the returned block
_(player1.name) // "Orion"
_(player1.hp) // 100
\`\`\`
In this example, \`createPlayer\` is a Block that, when called, configures and returns a new Block. Each call to \`createPlayer\` produces a distinct player object with its own initial state.
### Expression Separators
To support code golfing, expression separators within a Block are flexible. Newlines act as implicit separators, while commas (\`,\`) or semicolons (\`;\`) are required to separate expressions on the same line.
Newlines act as implicit separators. Commas (\`,\`) or semicolons (\`;\`) are required for single-line blocks.
\`\`\`javascript
// Multi-line style (separators optional)
// Multi-line
point: {
x: 10
y: 20
}
// Single-line style (separators required)
// Single-line
point: { x: 10, y: 20 }
point: { x: 10; y: 20 }
\`\`\`
## Arrow Expressions
@@ -498,4 +485,3 @@ To create the initial Hi-to-JS transpiler, the following primitives and built-in
</script>
</body>
</html>