Writing clean and maintainable code is what separates junior developers from senior engineers. It’s not just about making code work—but making it easy to understand, change, and extend.
Core principles:
- Meaningful Naming
- Use descriptive names:
calculate_total()
>calc()
orct()
. - Avoid abbreviations and cryptic variables.
- Use descriptive names:
- Single Responsibility
- Each function, module, or class should do one thing and do it well.
- Keep It DRY (Don’t Repeat Yourself)
- Abstract repeated code into reusable functions or components.
- Comment When Necessary
- Avoid obvious comments—focus on the “why” instead of “what”.
- Consistent Formatting
- Use code formatters like Prettier, Black, or clang-format.
- Stick to team or community style guides.
- Modular Design
- Split code into logical files and folders.
- Encapsulate related logic into reusable modules or classes.
- Write Tests
- Unit and integration tests ensure long-term code stability.
- TDD can help you stay focused and write better interfaces.
- Refactor Regularly
- Treat messy code like debt—clean as you go.
Clean code is readable, testable, and extensible. Prioritize future maintainers (including yourself), and you’ll write code that lasts.
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