This guide is for developers who want to extend PLang by creating custom modules.

By following these steps, you can integrate your own algorithms or libraries as modules in PLang,

Below we will be creating a module called ComplexAlgorithm as an example.

To kickstart module development, ensure the following prerequisites are met:

• Clone PLang: Obtain the PLang source code by cloning the PLang GitHub Repository.
• Development Environment: Install Visual Studio Community Edition if not already available. It offers a comprehensive, free development environment suitable for this project.

Begin by initiating a new Class Library project in Visual Studio, targeting .NET Core or .NET Standard, which will house your module.

Within this project, establish a Program.cs file, which will act as the entry point for your module.

Now, incorporate a reference to the PLang project within your module project to tap into its foundational features.

Structure your primary class to inherit from BaseProgram, residing in the PLang.Modules namespace. This step is crucial for linking your module with PLang and making its functions accessible within PLang code.

Consider this skeleton code for a hypothetical ComplexAlgorithm module:

using PLang.Modules;

namespace YourModuleName; // Adapt 'YourModuleName' to fit your module's actual name

public class Program : BaseProgram
{
    public async Task<int> ComplexCalculate(int a, int b)
    {
        // Insert your sophisticated algorithm here
        int result = (a + b) * new Random().Next(1, 900);
        return result;
    }
}

Modify ComplexCalculate and its body to encapsulate the functionality you aim to provide.

Build your project to produce a .dll file, constituting your compiled module.

Migrate your .dll file to the .modules directory at the root of the PLang project. Ensure PlangLibrary.dll is not transferred, as it is inherently part of PLang.

To leverage your module within PLang code, the exposed functions should be asynchronous, with any resulting values assigned to PLang variables. For instance, to utilize the ComplexCalculate function from our illustrative module, you could employ the following in PLang code:

CallModule
- execute complex calc on %a% and %b%, write to %result%

This will invoke your ComplexCalculate function with the supplied parameters %a% and %b%, depositing the result in the %result% variable.

• Naming Convention: Opt for clear, descriptive names for your modules and functions that accurately reflect their purpose.
• Focus: Maintain a sharp focus on a specific domain or functionality within your modules to enhance usability and composability.
• Documentation: Thoroughly document your functions, detailing parameters and expected outcomes to aid in comprehension and utilization by others.
• Error Management: Implement comprehensive error handling within your modules to gracefully address exceptions and unexpected inputs.

Creating custom modules for PLang not only extends its functionality but also fosters a culture of code reuse within the PLang community. We encourage you to experiment, craft your unique modules, and contribute to the collective growth of the ecosystem. Happy coding!