Graphing calculator program built using Code::Blocks.

Temitope is a Computer Programming Engineer at Djere Services Group. She wants to write a graphing calculator program in C++, specifically using the Code::Blocks Integrated Development Environment. She wants the computer program to be modular, and easy to maintain and upgrade. She wants the graphing calculator to be Free Software licensed under the GNU GPL version 3 or later. Please walk us through the though processes that she will have to go through to make this graphing calculator program a reality. Assume that the graphing calculator program will only have binaries for the most popular GNU/Linux distributions, and Android.

To create a modular and easy-to-maintain graphing calculator program in C++ using the Code::Blocks IDE and ensure it complies with the GNU GPL version 3 or later, Temitope will need to go through the following thought processes:

1. Defining Requirements:

   • Determine the specific functionalities and features required for the graphing calculator, such as plotting functions, supporting multiple mathematical operations, handling user input, and providing an intuitive user interface.
   • Consider additional requirements like graph customization, saving/loading graphs, supporting different coordinate systems, and providing error handling mechanisms.

2. Designing the Architecture:

   • Plan the program's architecture and module structure, ensuring modularity and separation of concerns.
   • Identify key modules, such as a graphing engine, input parser, mathematical operations library, and user interface components.
   • Define the interfaces and interactions between these modules.

3. Researching Graphing Libraries:

   • Explore available open-source graphing libraries suitable for C++ development, considering factors like functionality, performance, ease of integration, and compatibility with Code::Blocks.
   • Assess the licensing of the libraries to ensure compliance with the GNU GPL version 3 or later.
   • Choose a graphing library that meets the requirements and aligns with the desired licensing.

4. Setting Up Code::Blocks:

   • Install and configure the Code::Blocks IDE, ensuring it supports C++ development and provides the necessary toolchain for building binaries.
   • Familiarize herself with Code::Blocks features and settings relevant to the project.

5. Developing the Graphing Engine:

   • Implement the core functionality of the graphing engine, which will handle the plotting of functions and rendering of graphs.
   • Utilize the chosen graphing library to simplify the graph generation process.
   • Ensure the graphing engine is modular, well-documented, and easily extensible for future upgrades or enhancements.

6. Implementing the User Interface:

   • Design and develop an intuitive user interface for the graphing calculator, allowing users to input mathematical expressions, customize graph settings, and view the generated graphs.
   • Utilize Code::Blocks' GUI development features (such as wxWidgets) or explore other C++ GUI libraries that integrate well with Code::Blocks.
   • Ensure the user interface is responsive, visually appealing, and adheres to usability principles.

7. Handling User Input and Mathematical Operations:

   • Implement a parser to handle user input, extract mathematical expressions, and validate the input for correctness.
   • Develop a mathematical operations library that supports a wide range of functions, operators, and mathematical operations.
   • Integrate the parser and mathematical operations library with the graphing engine to process user input and generate accurate graphs.

8. Testing and Debugging:

   • Create comprehensive test cases to verify the correctness and accuracy of the graphing calculator's functionality.
   • Perform systematic testing of different mathematical expressions, boundary cases, and corner cases to ensure the program's robustness.
   • Use debugging tools within Code::Blocks to identify and fix any issues or errors encountered during development.

9. Packaging and Distribution:

   • Prepare the necessary build configurations in Code::Blocks to generate binaries for popular GNU/Linux distributions and Android.
   • Package the program as per the distribution requirements, considering the target package formats (e.g., deb, rpm, APK).
   • Create installation instructions and provide clear documentation on how to install and use the graphing calculator on the supported platforms.

10. Licensing and Open-Source Compliance:

    • Ensure that all code and dependencies used in the graphing calculator adhere to the GNU GPL version 3 or later.
    • Include the appropriate license notices, copyright statements, and disclaimers within the source code and documentation.
    • Verify that the chosen graphing library also complies with the desired licensing.

11. Maintenance and Upgrades:

    • Establish a version control system (e.g., Git) to track changes and manage the source code effectively.
    • Encourage community involvement and contributions to enhance the graphing calculator's features and address potential bugs.
    • Regularly update and maintain the program to ensure compatibility with new versions of dependencies and GNU/Linux distributions.

Throughout the development process, Temitope should prioritize modular code design, adhere to best practices, follow established coding conventions, and document the program's architecture, APIs, and usage guidelines. This approach will facilitate easier maintenance, future upgrades, and community engagement.