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Makefiles locate and define how source files are compiled and linked to create executable programs. They consist of text lines defining file functions and dependencies. Makefiles are essential for programming and can be used with any compiled language application.
Makefiles are a form of configuration file which is used by the make utility to identify the location of source files which will be used in an application. The makefile helps not only locate the source files, but also helps define how they will be compiled and linked together to allow an executable program to start and run. Creating a makefile is an essential process with almost any type of computer programming.
Because the makefile helps define the direction and function of various programs, it is an essential part of the script that is part of all make utility protocols. Make utilities may vary slightly from one programming application to another. However, it is important to note that almost all make utility variations will carry the same basic components found in such utilities, such as Unix.
In general, the makefile will consist of multiple lines of text that will define a file or set of files. Each of the file definitions will have to do with the intended function of that file within the operation of the program. For example, output files will be tagged in text lines such that the dependency of those files on source files is obvious and logical. Each dependency listed in the lines of text will include subsets of tab-indented text that help define the process from output to input and vice versa.
Using the make utility and creating a makefile makes it relatively easy to trace the steps involved in large and often detailed applications. However, it should be noted that a makefile can be used with virtually any type of compiled language application. Due to the nature of constructing a makefile, it is relatively easy for a programmer to insert extra lines of text at strategic points when programming improvement is desired.
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