Why is code so difficult to understand?

The comprehensibility of code is a key factor for efficient software development. Challenges in reading and understanding code often arise due to the limitations of the human working memory, which can only process a limited amount of information at the same time. Clear and descriptive names and the reduction of arguments in methods make a decisive contribution to improving readability. Clean code practices offer valuable approaches for minimizing cognitive effort and sustainably increasing code quality.

Podcast episode on understanding code

In this episode of the I discuss the comprehensibility of code and the cognitive processes of the human brain with Stefan Mandel and Peter Guntermann. We highlight the challenges software developers face when reading and understanding code and discuss the importance of clear and descriptive names and minimizing arguments in methods. We clarify why human working memory can only process a limited amount of information at a time and how clean code practices can improve readability and understandability of code.

“Code is also a form of communication, and if I feel inundated with chunks, it’s obviously not conducive to understanding.” - Peter Guntermann, Stefan Mandel

Stefan Mandel works as an agile fullstack software developer at andrena objects ag with almost 20 years of experience in various programming languages and settings. He has a degree in computer science (compiler construction with a minor in genetics) and has generally been very interdisciplinary since his studies. As an open source developer, he enjoys developing on Domain Specific Languages and Test Frameworks (golden master tests, capture replay tests, responsive layout tests).

As a mathematician by training, Peter Guntermann actually enjoys racking his brains over tricky problems. But when it comes to developing robust and easily maintainable software, he prefers to keep it as simple and brain-friendly as possible. Clean code and domain-driven design are his most important companions when it comes to overcoming the everyday challenges of an agile software engineer.

Highlights of the Episode

• Code comprehensibility and its challenges
• Cognitive processes of the human brain when reading code
• Influence of clean code principles on code comprehensibility
• Role and effectiveness of comments in code
• Impact of the number of arguments in methods on comprehensibility

The art of comprehensible code

The limits of working memory

What is working memory?

Working memory is the part of the human brain responsible for the short-term storage and processing of information. It has a limited capacity, typically about four “chunks” or chunks of information. These chunks are the smallest units of information stored in long-term memory.

Why is this important for coding?

When a developer reads code, he activates several chunks at the same time. This facilitates processing as long as the number of chunks remains within the limits of working memory. Experienced developers can process more chunks because they have a more extensive long-term memory built up through years of experience and learning. This means that they are able to recognize and understand more complex relationships, while less experienced developers may have difficulty processing the same information.

The importance of clear and meaningful names

The naming of code elements is crucial for comprehensibility. If a developer uses a name that is clear to themselves, this does not necessarily mean that it is understandable to others. Good naming practice requires developers to choose names that are generally understandable and evoke the right associations.

The role of comments in code

Comments can be useful to explain the code, but they can also affect readability if they are too long or unclear. The code should be written as clearly and comprehensibly as possible, so that comments only serve as a supplement and not as the main source of explanation.

The challenge of side effects

The human brain has difficulty dealing with state transitions. Developers have difficulty understanding the current state of a variable when it changes.

The importance of communication and collaboration

Communication within the team is crucial in order to develop a common understanding. Regular discussions and feedback can prevent misunderstandings and improve the comprehensibility of the code.

Fazit

Code understandability is a complex topic that involves both cognitive processes and best practices in software development. By applying the principles discussed in this episode of the Software Testing podcast, developers can not only improve their own work, but also foster team collaboration and ensure long-term code maintainability. Use the tips and best practices above to make your code clearer and easier to understand.

Frequently asked questions about clean code

What common mistakes should you avoid when writing clean code?

When writing clean code, clear names should be used for variables and functions. Avoid complex, nested structures that make the code difficult to read. Keep functions short and concise, and ensure that each function has a single task. Unnecessary comments can be misleading; write self-explanatory code instead. Finally, reduce the number of dependencies and use consistent formatting to create readable and maintainable structures.

How can you ensure that the code complies with the clean code principles?

To ensure that the code complies with the clean code principles, the following steps should be observed: Use meaningful names for variables and functions to make the code readable. Keep functions short and focused so that they fulfill a clear task. Comment only when necessary and avoid redundant information. Write automated tests to ensure functionality and maintainability. Carry out regular code reviews to check quality and compliance with clean code principles.

What are the best examples of clean code in programming?

The best examples of clean code demonstrate clear structure, readability and maintainability. These include: well-named variables and functions that fulfill a precise task; the use of comments to explain complex logic; and the use of formatting and indentation to improve clarity. The code should also be modular to promote reusability. Clean code minimizes errors and facilitates future adaptations.

What advantages does clean code offer for software development?

Clean code significantly improves software development by increasing the readability and maintainability of the code. This makes it easier for new team members to understand and reduces the susceptibility to errors. In addition, clean code promotes the reusability of components and accelerates development through clear structures. Teams can work together more efficiently and implement changes more quickly. Ultimately, clean code leads to higher software quality and less technical debt, which saves time and costs in the long term.

What are the most important clean code principles and how do you apply them?

The most important clean code principles are: Readability, simplicity, modularity and testability. Write clearly named functions that fulfill a single task. Keep the code free of superfluous comments and use descriptive variable names instead. Divide the code into small, reusable components and ensure that each part is independently testable. Regular refactoring improves the structure. These principles make the code more maintainable and easier to understand, which increases the quality of the software and improves team collaboration.

What are the main differences between clean code and clean architecture?

Clean code focuses on the spelling and structure of the code to make it readable and maintainable. Clean architecture, on the other hand, is an architectural pattern that organizes the software in layers to ensure independence from frameworks, UI and databases. While clean code promotes good programming practices, clean architecture aims to optimize the structure of the entire application. Both concepts complement each other, but are different in their area of application.

What is clean code?

Clean code refers to source code that is easy to read, maintain and efficiently structured. It follows clear rules and principles that make it easier for developers to make changes and extensions. Important features are understandable identifiers, a clear structure and comprehensive comments that make the code comprehensible. Clean code helps to minimize errors and improve team collaboration, as everyone involved can quickly understand the code. An investment in clean code pays off in the long term, as it increases productivity and improves software quality.