1. A method for constructing syntax-directed search and modifications in program transformation systems, comprising: compiling a language specified by a grammar into an executable, the language including commands for specifying searching, matching, and modifying operations on a source code representation using a syntax structure specification; performing a search based on the syntax structure specification and match criteria by matching every occurrence of a syntax name, when only the syntax name is specified in the syntax structure specification; and optionally providing a reference to a matched structure.