A graphic representation scheme and a tool for natural language documentation of C++ programs.

Abstract

A graphic representation scheme to represent C++ programs is presented as a set of related templates. The templates represent the three types of objects in a C++ program and their inheritance properties. A survey of existing C++ tools is presented followed by a brief introduction to the DoC++ (Documentation for C++) tool. The concepts in the C++ language underlying the DoC++ tool are discussed. The two parts of DoC++ are explained in detail. The Organized Representation for C++ (ORC++) tool provides templates for overviews and detailed views of C++ programs. The Natural language for C++ (NlC++) tool supports ORC++ by providing natural language to complement the ORC++ documentation. The implementation of the DoC++ system is discussed. Conclusions and suggestions for further research are made. Examples of the DoC++ output are included.