Blog Details

Scenario:

You’ve written a Python function for your project, but now you need the same logic in JavaScript and Java. Instead of rewriting it manually, your AI assistant can translate code between languages while preserving functionality.

Step 0: Define Your Goal

Example Python function:

def factorial(n: int) -> int:
    if n < 0:
        raise ValueError("Input must be non-negative")
    result = 1
    for i in range(2, n+1):
        result *= i
    return result

Goal: Generate equivalent functions in JavaScript and Java.

Step 1: Craft the AI Prompt

Think of the AI as a polyglot developer. Include:

1. The original code
2. Target programming language(s)
3. Optional: comments, type hints, or idiomatic style

Example Prompt:

Translate the following Python function to JavaScript and Java. 
Keep the logic the same and add comments explaining each line.

Step 2: AI Output Example

JavaScript Version:

function factorial(n) {
    if (n < 0) {
        throw new Error("Input must be non-negative");
    }
    let result = 1;
    for (let i = 2; i <= n; i++) {
        result *= i;
    }
    return result;
}

// Example usage
console.log(factorial(5)); // 120

Java Version:

public class Factorial {
    public static int factorial(int n) {
        if (n < 0) {
            throw new IllegalArgumentException("Input must be non-negative");
        }
        int result = 1;
        for (int i = 2; i <= n; i++) {
            result *= i;
        }
        return result;
    }

    public static void main(String[] args) {
        System.out.println(factorial(5)); // 120
    }
}

Step 3: Test the Translated Code

• Run the JavaScript function in Node.js or browser console:

node factorial.js

• Compile and run the Java class:

javac Factorial.java
java Factorial

Tip: Always test the translated code to ensure logic consistency.

Step 4: Mini Lab Challenges

1. Translate your is_prime(n) Python function to JavaScript and Java.
2. Translate a Python script with loops and conditionals into C++.
3. Ask AI to optimize translated code for the target language’s best practices.
4. Translate code and include detailed comments explaining each step for learners.

Step 5: Pro Tips

• AI can translate simple functions reliably; complex scripts may need manual verification.
• Specify the target language and style (e.g., Pythonic, JavaScript ES6, Java 8).
• Include comments or docstrings for clarity, especially for teaching or team collaboration.
• Compare AI translations across languages to learn language differences and idioms.

Lab Summary

• AI acts as a polyglot developer, saving time on manual translation.
• Clear prompts + language specification = accurate multi-language code.
• Always test and review AI-generated code in the target language.
• Using AI for multi-language support boosts project adaptability and cross-platform compatibility.