Programming languages and Integrated Development Environments - OCRWhat are high-level and low-level languages?

The two main types of programming languages are high-level languages (HLLs) and low-level languages (LLLs). Each has different features and they are used for different types of tasks. Examples of high-level languages are Python, C# and JavaScript.

Types of low-level languages are assembly language (mnemonics) and machine code (binary code made up of 0s and 1s). High-level languages are closer to natural human language and this makes them easier to read and write. They are generally used to create software and applications. Low-level languages are closer to the language that computers understand.

Features of high-level languages

• The words used are very similar to natural language, in particular English. For example, Python uses 'print', ‘if’, 'input' and 'while' statements.
• They need a translator to be converted into machine readable code.

Features of low-level languages

• They are harder to learn and understand.
• They are often written for a specific type of processor.
• They require an assembler to translate into machine code.
• They are suitable for direct control of hardware.