putsconst

Putsconst is a programming utility concept used to display the constants defined within a given scope, such as a module, class, or namespace, along with their current values. It is described in discussions of debugging and introspection as a lightweight way to inspect the runtime state of a program.

Typically implemented in languages that support reflection or a constants registry, putsconst takes a scope as input and enumerates the constant names defined there. It outputs entries in the form NAME = value. Some implementations include options to include or exclude inherited constants, to filter by a name prefix, to sort the output, or to traverse nested scopes.

Example: In pseudocode, putsconst(MyModule) might print:

PI = 3.14159

E = 2.71828

MAX_COUNT = 1000

Implementation details vary by language. In dynamically typed languages with robust reflection, putsconst can be implemented by accessing the language’s constants registry; in static languages it might be provided via a diagnostic tool or a library that inspects symbol tables. The exact formatting and behavior depend on the environment and the level of access permitted to the program’s runtime information.

Limitations include dependence on language support for reflecting on constants, potential changes if constants are redefined at runtime, and possible restrictions on accessing certain scopes for security or encapsulation reasons. See also: reflection, constants (programming), introspection, debugging tools.