How To Think Like A Computer ITSC 1212 - Functions First Edition

Good coding style is crucial to maintain elegant code and to not confuse yourself. For example, using non-descriptive variable names such as x, y, or z or using multiple variables of similar names will make the code harder to read and understand for others, and may confuse you in the process. As the programs you write become larger and larger, this becomes even more important. Take this example:

Here, the program runs and works properly, but the style could use some attention. The variable names are x, y, and z. They are not very descriptive of what values the variables are holding, more suitable variable names could be first_name, last_name, and full_name. These variable names are more descriptive and accurately relay what values the variables are holding.

Now the variable names make more sense. It’s clear to others what values the variable names have. If the program were more complex with tens of variables and a lot going on, it would still be clear what they are. This concept of code style does not only apply to variables though, it applies to each and every part. For example, if the lines that retrieved user input were blank (i.e., input() instead of input("Enter first name: ")), only the programmer would know what to enter. As you code and your programs become more complex, this will be crucial to maintaining readable code that others can easily interpret.