3. The Web IDE

Traditionally, GF grammars are created in a text editor and tested in the GF shell. Text editors know very little (if anything) about the syntax of GF grammars, and thus provide little guidance for novice GF users. Also, the grammar author has to download and install the GF software on his/her own computer.

In contrast, the GF online editor for simple multilingual grammars is available online, making it easier to get started. All that is needed is a reasonably modern web browser. Even Android and iOS devices can be used.

The editor also guides the grammar author by showing a skeleton grammar file and hinting how the parts should be filled in. When a new part is added to the grammar, it is immediately checked for errors.

Editing operations are accessed by clicking on editing symbols embedded in the grammar display: + = Add an item, × = Delete an item, % =Edit an item. These are revealed when hovering over items. On touch devices, hovering is in some cases simulated by tapping, but there is also a button at the bottom of the display to "Enable editing on touch devices" that reveals all editing symbols.

In spite of its name, the editor runs entirely in the web browser, so once you have opened the web page, you can continue editing grammars even while you are offline.