On: Challenging projects every programmer should try (...

[vkazanov]

A simple search engine is certainly doable from scratch in a matter of weeks, complete with most things expected from a search engine.

Similar to compilers or tiny OSes, one can go as hardcore as necessary, or just stick to basic stuff.

Of all the typical personal challenge style projects, databases are probable the hardest to build, and even that is not impossible.

[fragmede → vkazanov]

making a database is easy. making a fast database is what's hard.

[pointy_hat → fragmede]

Also, making a correct one is not an easy fit.

[kragen → fragmede]

even implementing all of sql92 or datalog without concern for efficiency is fairly complex

[convolvatron → kragen]

implementing a toy datalog should take no more than a week.

[kragen → convolvatron]

maybe less

[kragen → kragen]

but a text editor, a space invaders clone, a tiny basic compiler, or a mini operating system is an afternoon project. a spreadsheet or a video game console emulator is maybe comparable to implementing datalog