Direct mode

In computing, direct or immediate mode[1][2] in an interactive programming system is the immediate execution of commands, statements, or expressions. In many interactive systems, most of these can both be included in programs or executed directly in a read–eval–print loop (REPL).

Not to be confused with immediate mode (computer graphics).

Most interactive systems also offer the possibility of defining programs in the REPL, either with explicit declarations, such as Python's def, or by labelling them with line numbers. Programs can then be run by calling a named or numbered procedure or by running a main program.

Many programming systems, from Lisp and JOSS to Python and Perl have interactive REPLs which also allow defining programs. Most integrated development environments offer a direct mode where, during debugging and while the program execution is suspended, commands can be executed directly in the current scope and the result is displayed.

Example
Non-direct mode in Basic
 10 PRINT "HELLO WIKIPEDIA"
 READY.
 RUN
 HELLO WIKIPEDIA
 READY.
Direct mode in Basic
 PRINT "HELLO WIKIPEDIA"
 HELLO WIKIPEDIA
 READY.

References
  1. "Immediate Mode" (PDF).
  2. "C128 System Guide: Section 3".
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