Issues in programming language design

The past few years have witnessed an increased understanding of the relationship between programming languages and problem solving. Programming is now understood to be a rather difficult task which requires the simultaneous application of principles, skills, and art. Computer scientists have recognized that the features of a programming language can have a significant effect upon the ease with which reliable programs can be developed. It has also been observed that certain languages and language features are particularly well suited for the use of systematic programming techniques, while others hinder or discourage such discipline. Of course, it is possible to write well-structured, clearly organized programs in any programming language, but such programs have often been the exception rather than the rule.