Abstract: A digital computer system in which a series of programming series are processed and in which the structure of the programming statements must conform of a predetermined set of syntax criteria to permit processing. A programming statement is compiled in response to a computer input and displayed. The structure of the statement is examined in accordance with a predetermined statement of syntax rules. On the display selected color indicia are assigned to each character within the statement when it is in accordance with a predetermined set of syntax rules. The computer processor determines whether any characters remain to which color indicia have not been assigned and designates the statement as either acceptable or unacceptable by providing different color indicia bearing characters. In addition, the system includes a method of overlooking syntax errors to reduce operator frustration during running.