Writing Code: A Universal Language for Developers

In the vast landscape of coders, we all share a common goal: transforming ideas into working solutions. While some focus on crafting groundbreaking ideas, others aim to enhance those ideas or collaborate effectively. However, there lies a subtle yet significant difference between coders — the way code is written.

Some write code that works but is difficult to comprehend. Others write code so elegantly structured and self-explanatory that it becomes as easy to read as a story in English. This distinction makes or breaks the collaborative spirit of programming.

So, why is writing clean, readable code so crucial?

Why Readable Code Matters

1. Collaboration and Growth
   In a team, multiple developers interact with your code. Writing messy, cryptic code puts up barriers, making it difficult for others to contribute or expand on your ideas.

2. Future-Proofing
   Months down the line, even you might struggle to understand poorly written code. Clean code acts as a guide, helping you revisit and improve it effortlessly.

3. Code as Documentation
   Clear code often eliminates the need for extra documentation. When your code itself explains its purpose, function, and flow, it becomes an asset, not a liability.

Writing Code Like Writing English

Here’s the core idea: code should read like a conversation. Just as we write sentences with proper grammar and structure for clarity, we should write code with proper formatting, meaningful names, and logical organization.

Let’s illustrate this with an example:

Messy Code

javascriptCopy codefunction x(a, b) {
    if (a > b) {
        return a;
    } else {
        return b;
    }
}

At first glance, this works, but what does x, a, or b represent? This code leaves questions instead of answers.

Readable Code

javascriptCopy code/**
 * Returns the greater of two numbers.
 *
 * @param {number} firstNumber - The first number to compare.
 * @param {number} secondNumber - The second number to compare.
 * @return {number} - The greater of the two numbers.
 */
function getGreaterNumber(firstNumber, secondNumber) {
    if (firstNumber > secondNumber) {
        return firstNumber;
    } else {
        return secondNumber;
    }
}

Why is this better?

1. Descriptive Naming

   • getGreaterNumber clearly conveys the function’s purpose.

   • firstNumber and secondNumber explain what the inputs represent.

2. Comments for Context
   A simple comment explains the function's purpose and how it works.

3. Logical Flow
   The clear indentation and structured blocks make the code visually pleasant and easy to follow.

The Golden Rules for Writing Readable Code

1. Use Meaningful Names
   Choose variable and function names that reflect their purpose. Avoid abbreviations or single-letter names unless universally understood (like i in loops).

2. Write Small, Focused Functions
   A function should do one thing and do it well. If a function is too long, break it into smaller parts.

3. Comment Where Needed
   While clean code minimizes the need for comments, some complex logic or critical sections always benefit from short explanations.

4. Consistent Formatting
   Follow standard coding conventions: consistent indentation, spacing, and line breaks. Tools like Prettier or ESLint can help maintain this.

5. Avoid Hardcoding Values
   Use constants, configuration files, or environment variables to make your code flexible and reusable.

Bringing it Together: A Practical Example

Let’s say you’re building a function to calculate the total price of items in a shopping cart, considering discounts.

Poorly Written Code

javascriptCopy codefunction calc(t, d) {
    let p = 0;
    for (let i = 0; i < t.length; i++) {
        p += t[i];
    }
    p -= d;
    return p;
}

This works but is almost indecipherable to another developer. What’s t? What’s d?

Well-Written Code

javascriptCopy code/**
 * Calculates the total price of items in a shopping cart after applying a discount.
 *
 * @param {number[]} prices - Array of item prices in the cart.
 * @param {number} discount - Discount amount to subtract from the total price.
 * @return {number} - The final total price after applying the discount.
 */
function calculateTotalPrice(prices, discount) {
    let totalPrice = 0;

    // Sum up all item prices
    for (let price of prices) {
        totalPrice += price;
    }

    // Apply the discount
    totalPrice -= discount;

    return totalPrice;
}

This version uses descriptive names, a clear structure, and a comment to explain the function’s purpose. Any developer reading this will immediately understand what the function does and how to use it.

The Impact of Readable Code

Readable code is like a shared language that unites developers. It empowers teams to build faster, collaborate effectively, and grow ideas together. Writing clean code isn’t just a technical skill; it’s a responsibility to the community of developers who will read and build upon your work.

So, the next time you write a piece of code, remember: you’re not just solving a problem—you’re writing a story that others will read. Make it a good one.