What Are the Differences Between Prolog and Lisp?

Lisp

Lisp is a bit more "traditional" in terms of what a computer programming language is. You enter data into the computer, and the program performs calculations or other sorts of functions based upon what you enter.

It is somewhat similar to binary. For example, in binary, the code "1" means on and the code "0" means off. There is a whole system of numbers in binary, and when you input one of those numbers, the computer understands the task you require based on the numbers you enter.

Prolog

The Prolog language does not necessarily perform tasks. Instead, the programmer is able to compare facts with the programming language in order to verify them.

Purpose of the Prolog and Lisp Languages

Just from looking at the style of the language, you can probably tell which one of these two is able to serve a greater amount of purposes.

Since Prolog is more of a referential language, it is generally used only for specific types of tasks.
Lisp has a great many functions and it can be utilized in a number of different ways. It is appropriate for general usage, not just for specific functions.

Ease of Learning vs Convenience of Use

Whenever someone is learning something new, one of the questions that pops into his or her head is "How difficult is this going to be for me to learn?" Well, since Prolog is smaller and more specific, it is easier to learn than Lisp.

However, we also need to think in terms of user friendly, when we think of easy. Certainly, you will learn Prolog more quickly than you will learn Lisp. But since Lisp serves a greater many number of purposes, this program is actually the more convenient one. Once you learn it, you will be able to do so many different actions with it, whereas you might learn Prolog quickly, but you will be limited in your capabilities.

Versions of the Systems

Since Prolog is so simple, there are not too many different versions of it. In fact, programmers and computer wizards do not even distinguish between the different types. There are not really "types" so to speak, rather there are tiny variations amongst the Prolog systems. Therefore, the differences are not really considered too much at all.

On the other hand, Lisp has two commonly used versions, although there are some others that are not used as frequently. The two main types of Lisp are known as Common Lisp and Scheme.

Try Them Out

With this basic overview of the differences between Lisp and Prolog you now have a general feeling for the similarities and basic differences between the two programs. If you want to learn more about these two programs, you should try both of them out. Consider taking a computer course at a local college in order to get started.