Computer Chess Club Archives


Search

Terms

Messages

Subject: Re: New member

Author: David Mitchell

Date: 00:19:11 09/01/05

Go up one level in this thread


On August 31, 2005 at 22:51:01, Trond Elling Michalsen wrote:

>Hello all! I am a new member which do no know anything about programming! But I
>know a lot about how to operate computerprograms, make websites, designing, use
>databases like filemaker pro.
>And another little thing..., I am a mac-man.
>
>I am a chess-entusiast, and want to learn how to program a chess-engine. How do
>I start? that is my simple question. I am willing to start at a very low level
>of course, and build knowledge by doing.
>
>With wishes of a beautiful day and a creative life!
>
>Trond Svane

Welcome Trond,

Most chess programming is done in the 'C' language. It's sort of a middle level
langauge - fast, and most programming examples will be in 'C' or C++. C++ is
nice, but it is also has layers of complexities that can warp your mind
something fierce. Some problems just seem to cry out for object oriented
programming, while other tasks require herculean effort to do it with OOP. Chess
can happily be done either way. I lean toward C. :)

To that end, I'd recommend two books in 'C': The C Programming Language, by
Kernighan & Ritchie (the creators of C), second edition., and Beginning C, by
Ivor Horton. Horton's book is more for beginners, and has an example program of
a similar game to chess called Reversi or Othello, with many key concepts which
all game programs need.

I have no idea what compiler/IDE would be good for a mac, but I'm sure a site
for Mac'ers would be able to fill you in.

After you get comfy with simple programming tasks from the books, (maybe even
take a course), then it's time to start out with your chess engine. Let us know
when you're at that point.

Chess is not an easy game to program, in any language. Be patient, persistent,
and don't be afraid to ask for help if you get stuck.

Dave



This page took 0 seconds to execute

Last modified: Thu, 15 Apr 21 08:11:13 -0700

Current Computer Chess Club Forums at Talkchess. This site by Sean Mintz.