ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Coding conventions

Coding conventions are like rules that help people who write computer programs work together better. Just like we have rules at home, school or work that we follow, coding conventions provide standard ways for computer programmers to format and structure their code.

These conventions help programmers avoid making mistakes and create more readable and consistent code. For instance, they might use specific indentation, naming conventions, and comments to make their code more readable and understandable, just like how Mom or the teacher tells us to write our name, date, and title at the top of our papers.

Sometimes different coders work together to make a program, so if everyone uses a similar style or format, it is easier for them to understand each other's code. It is like all of us speaking the same language and using the same grammar to communicate. Coders usually agree on coding conventions when they start working on a project by creating a set of rules that all team members follow.

Following these coding conventions can save time, improve the quality of the code, and make it easier to maintain the program over time. Just like how following the rules helps make our school, home, and workplace a better, more organized place!