Examples of functions in ML

Below are examples to get you familiar in ML. Syntax and how the language works will be explained in later tutorials.

(* Factorial Function *)
fun fact n = 
     if n = 0 then 
          1
     else
          n * fact(n-1);
 
(* Reverse function *)
fun reverse n = 
     if null n then
          n
     else
          reverse(tl n)@[(hd n)];

How to start Programming in ML

The Standard ML of New Jersey provides an interactive compiler for Windows, Linux, amongst others. SML/NJ distribution files are available freely to download.

Install SML/NJ in Windows

Simply download the appropriate windows installer at SML/NJ distribution files. After downloading, simply install the files with the installer, restart your computer, and the program is available to run from then on.

Install SML/NJ in Linux

To install SML/NJ in Linux simply complete the following steps.

1. Open your terminal
2. Type in sudo apt get-install smlnj
3. Complete installation
4. To run smlnj, type in smlnj in your compiler