The first step towards a precise description of algorithms is the use of a collection of stylistic patterns for connecting together the algorithmic steps performed in the execution of programs. These patterns are called <#1455#>control structures<#1455#>. Elan-0 knows the following:
The forms available in Elan are also available in most other programming languages. Elan uses a notation with keywords written in upper case. They will be introduced by way of examples in the next subchapters.