Warnings for pattern matching

We examine the ML pattern-matching anomalies of useless clauses and non-exhaustive matches. We state the definition of these anomalies, building upon pattern matching semantics, and propose a simple algorithm to detect them. We have integrated the algorithm in the Objective Caml compiler, but we show that the same algorithm is also usable in a non-strict language such as Haskell. Or-patterns are considered for both strict and nonstrict languages.

• Type: Journal
• Year: 2007
• Where: JFP
• Authors: Luc Maranget
• Keywords: Algorithm, JFP 2007, Objective Caml Compiler, Useless Clauses