This study presents a review of selection factors for the seven major general-purpose programming languages: Ada, BASIC, C, COBOL, FORTRAN, PASCAL, and PL/I. The factors covered include not only the logical operations within each language, but also the advantages and disadvantages stemming from the current computing environment, e.g., software packages, microcomputers, and standards. This volume contains the discussion of language selection criteria based on: (1) the language and its implementation; (2) the application to be programmed; and (3) the user's existing facilities and software. Explanations of the criteria associated with the application and the user's facilities are included as well as 49 references. Appendices contain a list of abbreviations used, an annotated list of organizations that can provide additional information, and a discussion of alternatives to conventional programming. (Author/DJR)