Racket

Racket is a simple-to-handle program which provides users with a programming environment for multiple languages, including R5RS, Pretty Big, Swindle, Lazy Racket, FrTime and Algol 60.

The interface of the application is clean and simple to work with. As a first step, you must select the language from the menu, after which you can start writing programming code.

Some important features of Racket let you run and duplicate a macro stepper, and check the syntax for coding errors. When running a script, the app displays the language type and memory limit, along with any syntax errors.

You can insert comment boxes, images, fractions, large letters, XML and Racket boxes, along with text boxes, among others. It is also possible to limit the memory, create an executable file (only when dealing with the DMdA or HtDP teaching languages), clear error highlights, browse the computer for modules, as well as disable signature checkups and tests.

Other functions of the tool involve a search function; you can enable overwrite and wrapping mode, show active key bindings, toggle between text and Racket mode, as well as save definitions to file and add a teaching pack, just to name a few. From the Preferences screen you can customize options concerning the font, colors, editing, warnings, profiles, browser, tools and background expansion. These values can be restored to default at any time.

The program requires a very high amount of CPU and system memory, but it worked smoothly during our evaluation, without hanging, crashing or popping up error dialogs; we have not come across any issues. It has a good response time, supports keyboard shortcuts and contains user documentation.

Last but not least, you can enhance the app's features through add-ons, such as MrFlow (a static debugger) and MysterX (adds COM support to Windows). Racket should please most users who frequently work with the aforementioned programming languages.