Generating a parser using yacc

The z/OS UNIX yacc utility is a tool for writing compilers and other programs that parse input according to strict grammar rules. The z/OS UNIX yacc utility can produce anything from a simple parser for a desk calculator program to a very elaborate parser for a programming language. Those who are using yacc for complex tasks have to know all the idiosyncrasies of the program, including a good deal about the internal workings of yacc. On the other hand, the internal workings are mostly irrelevant to someone who is making an easy straightforward parser.

For this reason, novices may want to concentrate on the information in Tutorial on using lex and yacc for an overview of how to use yacc. This tutorial also shows how you can use lex and yacc together in the construction of a simple desk calculator.