High-level language.

The idea

A high-level language is a programming language written in a form that is close to human language and to the problem being solved, rather than close to the processor's own instruction set. Examples include Python, Java, C# and JavaScript. Because the code is readable and portable, one program can usually run on different hardware once translated. High-level languages give the programmer built-in structures such as variables, loops, selection and subroutines, and they hide hardware detail. They must be translated before the processor can execute them, using a compiler or an interpreter. Recognise that 'high-level' describes the level of abstraction from the machine, not the difficulty of the language or the skill of the programmer.

What earns the marks

• A high-level language is written in a form close to human language and to the problem, not close to machine code.
• High-level languages are portable: the same source code can be translated to run on different hardware.
• High-level languages provide built-in programming constructs such as variables, loops, selection and subroutines.
• High-level languages hide hardware detail, so the programmer does not manage registers or memory addresses directly.
• High-level source code must be translated by a compiler or an interpreter before execution.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Thinking 'high-level' means a harder or more advanced language.

  Put it right by explaining it means further abstracted from the machine.

• Believing high-level code runs directly on the processor without translation.

  Put it right by stating a compiler or interpreter is needed.

• Assuming high-level languages cannot be portable.

  Put it right by explaining portability is a key advantage.

• Confusing high-level languages with machine code or assembly.

  Put it right by noting those are low-level.

Exam tips

• Link the answer to abstraction from the machine, not to difficulty.
• Name a concrete example such as Python or Java to anchor the definition.
• State that translation by a compiler or interpreter is required before execution.