Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: Nand to Tetris Part II (project-centered course) from Coursera

In this project-centered course you will build a modern software hierarchy, designed to enable the translation and execution of object-based, high-level languages on a bare-bone computer hardware platform. In particular, you will implement a virtual machine and a compiler for a simple, Java-like programming language, and you will develop a basic operating system that closes gaps between the high-level language and the underlying hardware platform. In the process, you will gain a deep, hands-on understanding of numerous topics in applied computer science, e.g. stack processing, parsing, code generation, and classical algorithms and data structures for memory management, vector graphics, input-output handling, and various other topics that lie at the very core of every modern computer system.

This is a self-contained course: all the knowledge necessary to succeed in the course and build the various systems will be given as part of the learning experience. The only prerequisite is knowledge of programming at the level acquired in introduction to computer science courses. All the software tools and materials that are necessary to complete the course will be supplied freely after you enrol in the course.

This course is accompanied by the textbook "The Elements of Computing Systems" (Nisan and Schocken, MIT Press). While not required for taking the course, the book provides a convenient coverage of all the course topics. The book is available in either hardcopy or ebook form, and MIT Press is offering a 30% discount off the cover price by using the discount code MNTT30 at https://mitpress.mit.edu/books/elements-computing-systems.

The course consists of six modules, each comprising a series of video lectures, and a project. You will need about 2-3 hours to watch each module's lectures, and about 15 hours to complete each one of the six projects. The course can be completed in six weeks, but you are welcome to take it at your own pace. You can watch a TED talk about this course by Googling "nand2tetris TED talk".

*About Project-Centered Courses: Project-centered courses are designed to help you complete a personally meaningful real-world project, with your instructor and a community of learners with similar goals providing guidance and suggestions along the way. By actively applying new concepts as you learn, you’ll master the course content more efficiently; you’ll also get a head start on using the skills you gain to make positive changes in your life and career. When you complete the course, you’ll have a finished project that you’ll be proud to use and share.

What's inside

Syllabus

Getting Started

Machine Language

Virtual Machine I: Stack Arithmetic

Virtual Machine II: Program Control

High-Level Language

Compiler I: Syntax Analysis

Compiler II: Code Generation

Operating System

Postscript: More Fun to Go

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches machine code, which is the foundation of modern software and computer systems

Develops software engineering skills, including stack processing, parsing, code generation, and memory management

Covers computer science fundamentals, such as classical algorithms and data structures

Provides a unique opportunity to build a modern software hierarchy from scratch

Can be taken at your own pace, making it accessible to learners with varying schedules

May require additional time and effort to complete the projects

Reviews summary

Understand computers from binary to os: nand to tetris part two

Learners say this project-based course expands their foundational knowledge of computers. Although challenging, students highly value what they learn. Students particularly appreciate the insights gained from creating a compiler and operating system. Note that this course is most appropriate for those with a programming background.

Dive deep into hands-on projects building a computer from scratch.

"The course is project-centered."

"It makes it a lot more hands-on and interactive than just reading about how computers work."

"This course puts the understanding of how computers work, from low-level hardware to high-level software, into the grasp of anyone who is curious enough and willing to do the work."

Build a simple operating system to support your custom hardware and compiler.

"Learning about virtual machines, translators, parsing, syntax analysis, building a high level language compiler, building operating system libraries."

Learn the ins and outs of building a complete compiler for a programming language.

"This course is for the avid programmers that want to understand compilers and languages and how they interact with a computer (preumable the one you build in Part 1 of the course)."

"It really deepened my understanding of computers and helped me to be a better programmer. It is more challenging than the first part."

Gain a deep understanding of how a computer works, including its hardware, software, and architecture.

"You often ask yourself how computers really work, even if you have a computer science education. You usually learn individual aspects of technology. This course teaches everything. You get the full picture."

"Along with Part I, this course fills all the knowledge gaps among the distinct computer science courses."

"This is a great course to a great amount of knowledge about the compiler and programming language, and get some knowledge about the operating system."

Prepare for a high level of difficulty and time commitment.

"The difficulty design of coursework is unreasonable, and the difficulty span is large, which is unacceptable"

"Extremely challenging, but well-worth the time and effort!"

"This entire course honors what it claims. It has the ability to demystify computers and how they work."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: Nand to Tetris Part II (project-centered course) with these activities:

Review foundational programming knowledge

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Refresh your understanding of programming concepts such as variables, data types, control flow, and functions to strengthen your foundation for this course.

Browse courses on Introduction to Computer Science

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Recall concepts of variables, data types, and operators
Revisit fundamental control flow structures like if-else and loops
Practice writing and debugging simple functions

Explore virtual machine concepts

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Enhance your understanding of virtual machines by following guided tutorials that delve into their architecture, operation, and advantages.

Browse courses on Virtual Machine

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Find tutorials on virtual machine concepts and architecture
Follow along with the tutorials, taking notes and experimenting with examples
Create a simple virtual machine to gain hands-on experience

Review 'Operating System Concepts' by Abraham Silberschatz

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Supplement your understanding of operating systems by reviewing a classic textbook in the field, providing a comprehensive overview of key concepts and principles.

View Operating System Concepts on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Operating System Concepts' by Abraham Silberschatz
Read and take notes on the chapters relevant to the course

Five other activities

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Design and implement a stack data structure

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Solidify your understanding of stacks by designing and implementing a stack data structure in a programming language of your choice.

Browse courses on Stack Data Structure

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Research and understand the concept and operations of a stack
Design the interface and implementation of your stack data structure
Code and test your stack implementation thoroughly

Practice parsing techniques

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Refine your parsing skills by working through practice drills that involve parsing expressions, statements, or code snippets.

Browse courses on Parsing

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Find online or textbook exercises on parsing
Solve the parsing exercises, paying attention to syntax rules and grammar
Review your solutions and identify areas for improvement

Gather resources on software engineering best practices

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Bolster your software engineering knowledge by compiling a collection of articles, tutorials, and documentation on best practices in software design, testing, and maintenance.

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Search for reputable sources on software engineering best practices
Organize and categorize the gathered resources into a structured compilation
Review the compilation periodically to refresh your understanding and stay updated

Attend a workshop on compiler optimization

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Expand your knowledge of compiler optimization techniques by attending a workshop led by experts in the field.

Browse courses on Compiler Optimization

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Research and identify relevant compiler optimization workshops
Register and attend the workshop, actively participating and asking questions
Apply the learned techniques to your own compiler projects or code optimizations

Mentor a junior developer on operating system concepts

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Enhance your understanding of operating system concepts by mentoring a junior developer, providing guidance and support on topics such as process management, memory management, and file systems.

Browse courses on Operating Systems

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Identify a junior developer seeking mentorship on operating system concepts
Schedule regular meetings to discuss concepts, answer questions, and provide feedback
Assign practical exercises and projects to reinforce learning

Career center

Learners who complete Build a Modern Computer from First Principles: Nand to Tetris Part II (project-centered course) will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Computer Hardware Engineer

Computer Hardware Engineers research, design, develop, and test computer systems and components. They are often involved in the development of new technologies, such as microprocessors, memory chips, and circuit boards. This course would be particularly helpful for Computer Hardware Engineers who want to learn more about the inner workings of computers, as it covers topics such as machine language, virtual machines, and compilers. The understanding of computer science topics from this course can be especially beneficial in the field of computer hardware engineering, which would ultimately provide you with a better foundation for your career.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Hardware Engineer

Computer Software Engineer

Computer Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. They work on a variety of projects, from small business applications to large-scale enterprise systems. This course would be helpful for Computer Software Engineers who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as programming languages, data structures, and algorithms. This course is designed to build a strong foundation for software engineers who are looking to develop their career by understanding the software hierarchy, as well as gaining experience in compiler design.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Software Engineer

Software Developer

Software Developers are responsible for writing and maintaining the code that powers computer systems. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new features for existing software to creating entirely new applications. This course is project-centered, which provides the perfect opportunity for Software Developers to build a portfolio of projects that they can use to showcase their skills to potential employers. Additionally, the curriculum aligns directly with the areas that Software Developers need to know, such as object-based programming, memory management, input-output handling, and program control.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Developer

Computer Programmer

Computer Programmers write and maintain the code that runs on computers. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new software to updating existing systems. This course would be helpful for Computer Programmers who want to learn more about the fundamentals of programming and computer science, including topics like classical algorithms, data structures, and computer system design. This course is designed to help Programmers build a foundation in these areas, and provides projects that can help build a portfolio.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Programmer

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts study the needs of an organization and develop computer systems to meet those needs. They work with users to gather requirements, design systems, and implement and test solutions. This course would be helpful for Computer Systems Analysts who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as operating systems, computer architecture, and networking. With a project-centered learning approach, this course can help Computer Systems Analysts apply their new knowledge and build out their portfolios.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining databases. They work with users to gather requirements, design databases, and implement and test solutions. This course would be helpful for Database Administrators who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as data structures, algorithms, and database design. The course is project-centered, and would allow for the development of a portfolio that demonstrates proficiency.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Information Security Analyst

Information Security Analysts protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction. They work with users to gather requirements, design security systems, and implement and test solutions. This course would be helpful for Information Security Analysts who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer security, as it covers topics such as cryptography, network security, and operating system security. This course is project-centered, and gives Information Security Analysts the chance to work on projects that they can add to their portfolios, demonstrating their ability to apply what they have learned.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

Network Engineer

Network Engineers design, install, and maintain computer networks. They work with users to gather requirements, design networks, and implement and test solutions. This course would be helpful for Network Engineers who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer networking, as it covers topics such as network protocols, network topologies, and network security. This course is project-centered, giving Network Engineers the ability to build a portfolio that showcases their skills in network design and implementation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Network Engineer

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and Information Research Scientists research and develop new computer and information technologies. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new programming languages to creating new ways to store and process data. This course would be helpful for Computer and Information Research Scientists who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as algorithms, data structures, and programming languages. The project-centered nature of this course gives you the opportunity to create something that can be used to showcase your skills and knowledge.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer and Information Research Scientist

Operations Research Analyst

Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and statistical techniques to solve business problems. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new inventory management systems to optimizing production schedules. This course would be helpful for Operations Research Analysts who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as algorithms, data structures, and probability. The project-centered approach to this course allows you to apply your new skills to real-world problems, and this completed work can be added to your portfolio.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Statistician

Statisticians collect, analyze, and interpret data. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new statistical methods to applying statistical techniques to real-world problems. This course would be helpful for Statisticians who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as data structures, algorithms, and probability. With the projects in this course, Statisticians can develop a portfolio of work to showcase their skills, including their ability to analyze and interpret data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Data Scientist

Data Scientists use data to solve business problems. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new machine learning algorithms to creating new data visualization tools. This course would be helpful for Data Scientists who want to learn more about the fundamentals of computer science, as it covers topics such as machine learning, data mining, and data visualization. The hands-on projects in this course provide the opportunity to develop a portfolio of work that showcases Data Science skills, including the ability to collect, analyze, and visualize data.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Web Developer

Web Developers design and develop websites. They work on a variety of projects, from creating simple websites to developing complex web applications. This course would be helpful for Web Developers who want to learn more about the fundamentals of web development, as it covers topics such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The project-centered approach to this course gives you the opportunity to create a portfolio of work that showcases your web development skills.

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User Experience Designer

User Experience Designers research and design user interfaces for websites and software applications. They work with users to gather requirements, design interfaces, and test solutions. This course would be helpful for User Experience Designers who want to learn more about the fundamentals of user experience design, as it covers topics such as human-computer interaction, usability testing, and information architecture. The project-centered approach to this course allows you to apply your new skills to real-world problems, giving you the ability to build a portfolio that showcases your work.

See salaries and explore the career path for User Experience Designer

Technical Writer

Technical Writers create documentation for software and hardware products. They work with engineers and other technical experts to gather information, write documentation, and test solutions. This course would be helpful for Technical Writers who want to learn more about the fundamentals of technical writing, as it covers topics such as technical writing principles, documentation standards, and user interface design. By taking this course, Technical Writers can build a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to write high-quality technical documentation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer