Writing a C Compiler, in Zig (2025)

2026-04-23 | original

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Why This Matters

This article highlights the ongoing efforts to develop a C compiler using Zig, showcasing the language's capabilities for systems programming. It underscores the importance of exploring new tools and languages to enhance compiler development and software efficiency, especially for developers interested in low-level programming. For consumers, it signals potential advancements in compiler technology that could lead to more optimized and reliable software in the future.

Key Takeaways

Using Zig for compiler development demonstrates its suitability for low-level programming tasks.
The project serves as a learning exercise and showcases Zig's capabilities in systems programming.
Open-source projects like this can influence future compiler design and optimization techniques.

This is a series of articles I wrote while writing paella , following Nora Sandler's Writing a C Compiler. It was both an exercise to learn Zig and a way to waste time instead of looking for work, as I am currently "between jobs". I did not edit them as I collect them here outside of fixing some broken links.

If/when I continue with the book, I shall post the following writeups here.

Explore topics: zig paella nora sandler c compiler programming