Move Lang

{% if once(name="move_lang") %}

Move Language

Move on Aptos is a safe, resource-oriented programming language for smart contracts on the Aptos blockchain. It uses a linear type system to enforce ownership and prevent double-spending at compile time.

Move Language Basics

• Modules are the unit of code organization, published at an address.
• Structs define data types; abilities (key, store, copy, drop) control what operations are permitted.
• Entry functions (entry fun) are transaction entry points callable from outside Move.
• View functions (#[view]) are read-only queries that do not modify state.
• Global storage stores resources (structs with key) at addresses.
• Move 2 syntax (required):
  • Read resource: &T[addr] (not borrow_global<T>(addr))
  • Mutate resource: &mut T[addr] (not borrow_global_mut<T>(addr))
  • Access field: T[addr].field directly (the compiler inserts the ref op)
  • acquires annotations are no longer needed — do not add them.
• Error codes: Use named constants for abort codes (const E_NOT_FOUND: u64 = 1;) and document them.
• Edit hook: The edit hook auto-runs on .move files after edits. If it reports compilation errors, fix them before proceeding with further changes.

Reference

• The Move Book
• Aptos Framework Reference {% endif %}