A method for programming a memory array

The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for programming the memory array. In one embodiment, after programming the respective word lines to try to detect a defect on that word line. If a defect is detected, repairing that word line with a redundancy word line. Then reprogramming and recheck the word line is defective. In another embodiment, after programming the respective word lines to try to detect a defect on that word line. If a defect is detected, then the word line and the previously programmed adjacent word line repair together. In a further embodiment, the respective word lines programmed to try to detect defective word line adjacent to said word line and the previously programmed. If a defect is detected in the word line, the word line and then fix the previously programmed adjacent word line with a redundancy word line.