Abstract

Extended ML is a framework for the formal development of programs in the Standard ML programming language from high-level specifications of their required input/output behaviour. It strongly supports the development of modular programs consisting of an interconnected collection of generic and reusable units. The Extended ML framework includes a methodology for formal program development which establishes a number of ways of proceeding from a given specification of a programming task towards a program. Each such step gives rise to one or more proof obligations which must be proved in order to establish the correctness of that step. This paper is intended as a user-oriented summary of the Extended ML language and methodology. Theoretical technicalities are avoided whenever possible, with emphasis placed on the practical aspects of formal program development. An extended example of a complete program development in Extended ML is included.

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