Chapter 1: The machine

At the very bottom, there is only one kind of thing.

Binary and bytes

Also called Bit, Byte, Executable

Computers store everything as bits, each one 0 or 1. Eight bits make a byte, which can hold 256 different values. Text, pictures and programs are all runs of bytes, and only the reader decides what they mean.

Agents and people both read text far more easily than anything else, and neither of you can readily check a compiled program. So you review and keep the source, and build the rest from it.

Say it to your agent

“Don't commit the built bundle or any other binary. Add dist/ to .gitignore, and commit the source and the command that builds it, so the result can be reproduced and reviewed.”

The workshop

Name a word, or describe what you mean in everyday language.