Method and apparatus for programming the memory array

Method and apparatus for programming the memory array is disclosed. In one embodiment, after each word line is programmed, an attempt to detect a defect of the word line is made. If a defect is detected, the word lines are repaired by the spare word line. Thereafter the word line, reprogrammed, defects are rechecked. In another embodiment, after each word line is programmed, an attempt to detect a defect of the word line is made. If a defect is detected, that word line is repaired together with the adjacent word line programmed in advance. In yet another embodiment, each word line is then programmed, an attempt to detect a defect of the word line and the pre-programmed neighboring word lines is made. If defects when detected on the word line, the word line and the programmed neighboring word lines in advance is repaired by the spare word line.