The first few chapters are dedicated to getting the user acquainted with the basics of the programming language, the system, and the base concepts that will be expanded on through the book. Preface [Programming is] the act of extending or changing a system’s functionality. Programming is a widespread activity that is done both by nonspecialists (e.g., consumers who change the settings of their alarm clock or cellular phone) and specialists (computer programmers, the audience for this book) ...