Now that we can use REPL, let's understand the base Scala syntax. For now, it's not necessary to learn it in detail, but let's get familiar with it by using an example.

Note

For a formal, detailed description, refer to the SLS: Scala Language Specification here: http://scala-lang.org/files/archive/spec/2.12/.

Base Syntax for Definitions

Scala compilation unit – This is a set of definitions inside an entity (template-entity), which can be an object, a class, or a trait. We will speak about the Object-Oriented part of the Scala language in detail later. Now, let's look at the basic syntax. Let's define some classes in REPL:

> class X {  def f():Int = 1 }
> Class X defined  // answer in REPL

Definitions inside the entity can be nested entities, functions, or values:

> def f():Int = 1

Here, the function f is defined, returning 1. We will talk about this function in detail in Chapter 3, Functions. Now, let's stay on the top-level view:

> val x = 1

Here, the value x is defined with value 1:

> var y = 2

Here, the mutable variable y is defined with value 2.

Other high-level entities include objects and traits. We can create objects by writing object or trait definitions:

>  object O {  def f():Int =1  }
>  trait O {  def f():Int =1  }

We will talk about classes, objects, and traits in the next chapter.

Now, let's look at defining an object in REPL with the name ZeroPoint.

Steps for Completion: