What is MIME type "text/x-literate-agda"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

The MIME type text/x-literate-agda is used for files written in a literate style for Agda. It mixes code with detailed explanations and proofs.

Files in this format use the LAGDA extension. This allows developers to integrate descriptive text and source code in a single file.

Literate Programming: Combine narrative documentation with executable code.
Proof Development: Write and verify mathematical proofs alongside code.
Code Maintenance: Enhance readability and organization of complex programs.

The text nature of this MIME type means it can be edited with any plain text editor. The x- prefix signals that it is a non-standard or experimental type. This approach aligns code with its documentation, making it easier to understand and maintain.

Learn more about MIME types at MDN and explore further Agda details in the Agda Documentation.

Associated file extensions

.lagda

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: text/x-literate-agda

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="text/x-literate-agda">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'text/x-literate-agda');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.lagda

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.