T01A-programming languages
Dennis Bunde · 1974
Readability in computer language design is important to facilitate the communication of algorithms between users, in debugging, and in program modification. Reading for comprehension involves forming an internal model of what is being said. Both program proving and program reading involve manipulating this model. In order for the human to apply operators to this model, it is necessary to remember it. There is a psychological cost associated with remembering the model. This cost is an increasing function of the human memory load. Two results consistent with this view are: I. Minimizing the scope of variables, labels, and functions increases the readability of programs. 2. The control structure of the optimally readable language is neither completely GOTO-free nor completely GOTO structured.