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Reading list

If you dont know the smalltalk language

Another useful starter is the "List of useful selectors"; if used with the systemBrowser, this list helps you to find out how and where classes and their methods are used. Almost all classes source is there, and most of the stuff is well documented.
Also, all classes include some documentation and examples (usually found in the classes documentation category) which can be viewed with the browser.

Finally, many methods contain a comment which demonstrates a typical use of that method.

Although the smalltalk language itself is simple and easy to learn, there is a huge class library containing ready to be used building blocks.
Dont get shocked by the number of existing classes and methods - you dont have to know and remember everything by heart (even the authors of those systems need the browser to find their way through ;-).

If you know smalltalk, but want to see interresting things about ST/X

On the basic class level, Smalltalk/X is pretty much compatible to other smalltalk implementations. So if you already know collections, streams & friends, read: Also, interresting information is found in: However, for experienced programmers, most of this is well known.

The main differences are found in the implementation of the view classes; it is highly recommended, to read:

which gives you a step-by-step tutorial on this.

When programming, start with some of the included graphical demos. Load them using the FileBrowser and have a look at and understand the code.

Nice short demos are found in the directory "doc/coding" and "clients/Demos". Most of these demos try to point out a specific feature. The stuff in "doc/coding" is less oriented toward graphics.

Then turn to the more complex demos - the DrawTool is a pretty (and powerful) application to look at.
Also, the 3D demos found in "clients/GLdemos" invite to play and try new things.

If you know Smalltalk, and want to write primitives and inline C code

Read:

The later text also gives you a step-by-step guide and example of how you can create and include your own binary class libraries.


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(cg@ssw.de)