Wiki source code of Expressive Names
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1.4 | 1 | * **Meaningful and Descriptive Names** |
2 | * Choose names carefully, as if naming a child. | ||
3 | * Names should reflect the code's purpose clearly. For example, use `unorderedNumbers` and `orderedNumbers` instead of a generic `numbers`. | ||
4 | * **Avoid Misinformation** | ||
5 | * Steer clear of ambiguous, easily confused names or characters (e.g., l vs. 1, O vs. 0). | ||
6 | * **Clarity in Differences** | ||
7 | * Distinguish names distinctly, avoiding similar expressions and redundant words (e.g., a, an, the, info, data). | ||
8 | * **Pronounceable and Searchable Names** | ||
9 | * Use names that are easy to pronounce and discuss. | ||
10 | * Name length should match its scope: short for local loops, longer for broader usage. | ||
11 | * **No Encodings or Mental Mappings** | ||
12 | * Avoid including type or scope information in names. | ||
13 | * Names should be clear without requiring mental translation, meaning any effort of the programmer to get the actual purpose | ||
14 | * **Naming Conventions for Classes and Methods** | ||
15 | * Class names: Use nouns or noun phrases. | ||
16 | * Method names: Use verbs or verb phrases, adhering to standards like JavaBean (get, set, is, has). Utilize descriptive function names instead of overloaded constructors. | ||
17 | * **Avoid Inappropriate Humor and Ambiguities** | ||
18 | * Refrain from humorous names. | ||
19 | * Choose one word per concept to maintain consistency (e.g., always use "get" instead of alternating with "fetch" or "retrieve"). | ||
20 | * Avoid puns and ambiguous terms (like "add" for addition or appending). | ||
21 | * **Domain-Specific Naming** | ||
22 | * Use technical terms (solution domain) for clarity among programmers. | ||
23 | * Use terms from the problem domain when no technical equivalents exist, aiding domain experts. | ||
24 | * **Context and Simplicity in Naming** | ||
25 | * Provide meaningful context through combined variable and method names. | ||
26 | * Avoid unnecessary context; opt for shorter, meaningful names. | ||
27 | * Be open to renaming for clarity and improvement. |