Efficient reordering of PROLOG programs

PROLOG programs are often inefficient: execution corresponds to a depth-first traversal of an AND/OR graph; traversing subgraphs in another order can be less expensive. It is shown how the reordering of clauses within PROLOG predicates, and especially of goals within clauses, can prevent unnecessary search. The characterization and detection of restrictions on reordering is discussed. A system of calling modes for PROLOG, geared to reordering, is proposed, and ways to infer them automatically are discussed. The information needed for safe reordering is summarized, and which types can be inferred automatically and which must be provided by the user are considered. An improved method for determining a good order for the goals of PROLOG clauses is presented and used as the basis for a reordering system.