< Programming Fundamentals < Functions
Code formatting

Programming style is a set of rules or guidelines used when writing the source code for a computer program. Following a particular programming style will help programmers read and understand source code conforming to the style, and help to avoid introducing errors.[1] This activity introduces programming style and will help you apply standard programming style in a program.

Objectives

  • Understand programming style.
  • Recognize standard programming style for your selected programming language.
  • Use a programming-style checker (linter) to validate programming style for a program.

Prerequisites

Introduction

Questions

  • What aspects of programming would you want to include in a standard style guide?
  • What is a naming convention?
  • What naming convention is used in the programming language you are using for this course?

Activity

With a partner, perform the following:

  1. Research "_____ style guide", where _____ is your selected programming language. There are typically multiple style guides available for a given language. Which source do you trust? Why?
  2. Select a source you trust and review the style guide. Note the following:[2]
    • Maximum recommended line length
    • Line continuation character
    • Code block structure
    • Standard indentation
    • Blank lines
    • White space
    • Comments
    • Variable and function naming conventions
  3. Search for a linter or code beautifier for your selected programming language. Run the tool on a program you have created to test your code formatting.

Applications

  • What are the advantages of having a standard programming style for a given programming language?
  • What tool can you use to validate your programming style, and when will you use this tool?
  • Discuss your activity experience with your classmates. What surprised you? What have you learned that you can apply to your own school or work environment?

References

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