Spindle

The open-source programming language and learning platform for mastering AP CSP code—
Practice, experiment, and learn with real, runnable code inspired by the AP Computer Science Principles exam.

⭐ Star us, it motivates us a lot!

---

Spindle bridges the gap between AP® CSP theory and hands-on programming. Work with live code that mirrors exam syntax and logic—online or natively on your desktop, for free, forever.

---

🚀 Table of Contents

• ✨ Why Spindle?
• 💡 Core Principles
• 💻 Sample Code
• 🔨 How To Use
  • Quick Start (In Your Browser)
  • Native/Desktop Usage
• 🚂 Contributing
• 🌐 Community & Support
• 🧑‍⚖️ Legal Stuff

---

✨ Why Spindle?

• Exam-Ready: Get comfortable with AP CSP-style questions and code in an environment that mimics the real exam.
• Accessible for Everyone: Use Spindle on almost any device—no installation needed for web usage!
• Free & Open Source: We believe learning should be accessible to all. No paywalls, ever.
• Community-Powered: Spindle is built by and for students, educators, and enthusiasts. We welcome your ideas, bug reports, and contributions.

---

💡 Core Principles

1. Quality: Spindle code is designed to look and function as close as possible to the AP CSP exam experience.
2. Simplicity: We make learning core computer science principles easy for all students, regardless of background.
3. Affordability: Spindle is—and always will be—100% free. No expensive textbooks or subscriptions required.
4. Transparency: Our project is fully open-source. Everything from our code to our roadmap is public and community-driven.
5. Accessibility: Not everyone has the latest laptop or is familiar with command lines. Spindle runs in your browser or on nearly any desktop.

---

💻 Sample Code

# Displays "Hello Spindle!"
DISPLAY("Hello Spindle!")

---

🔨 How To Use

Spindle can be run online in your browser or natively on your desktop. Choose what’s easiest for you!

Quick Start (In Your Browser)

1. Visit Spindle's website: https://spdl.glitch.me/code
2. Type your code in the "Code Input" box (try the sample above if you’re new!)
3. Click the Run button to see your code in action.

Native Method (Running on Desktop)

1. Download Spindle:

   • Go to our Releases page and download Spindle.py and shell.py.
   • Make sure you also have Python installed (Download Python).

2. Create a Project Folder:

   • Make a new folder (name it anything you like) for your Spindle files.

3. Extract Spindle Files:

   • Put Spindle.py and shell.py in your folder.

4. Write Your Spindle Code:

   • Make a new text file ending in .spdl (e.g., my_first_program.spdl) and write your code.

5. Run Your Code:

   • Simple Method:
     • Run shell.py (double-click or use Python).
     • Type RUN("[FILENAME].spdl") (replace [FILENAME] with your code file).
   • Advanced Method:
     • Open a terminal or command prompt.
     • Use cd to go to your folder.
     • Run:

       python shell.py RUN("[FILENAME].spdl")

---

🚂 Want to Contribute?

Open source means everyone can help!

• Found a bug? Report it in issues—it helps us make Spindle better.
• Have coding skills? Help us add features, fix bugs, or improve documentation.
• Not sure where to start? Check Good First Issues or CONTRIBUTING.md.

We appreciate all contributions—big or small. Contributors are always credited!

---

🌐 Community & Support

• Website
• GitHub Discussions
• Releases
• Documentation
• Contact

Tip: Have a question? Ask in Discussions or open an issue.

---

🧑‍⚖️ Legal Stuff

The Spindle programming language, website, logo, and brand are licensed under the MIT License.
You fully own all programs you create with Spindle. For more, see the LICENSE file or ask us!

Disclaimer:
"AP CSP" refers to "AP® Computer Science Principles", a trademark of College Board. This project is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by College Board.
AP® is a trademark registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse, this project.

---

Spindle: Making AP CSP coding accessible, real, and fun for everyone.
💡 Join us and shape the next generation of computer science education!