Guide: Coding Standards in Extreme Programming
Coding standards are a vital part of Agile project management and Extreme Programming.
They comprise a set of rules and best practices that developers follow when writing software code.
These standards are designed to promote code readability and maintainability, thereby enhancing software quality and reducing bug rates.
Why it is important: The use of coding standards makes it easier for different developers within a team to understand each other’s code. This facilitates collective code ownership, improves productivity, and makes software more maintainable and scalable.
How it works: Every software team following Agile or Extreme Programming principles decides on coding standards that they should adhere to.
When code is written or reviewed, it is checked against these standards.
Coding standards may include everything from naming conventions and indentation styles to maximum line lengths and file organization.
Answering Questions on Coding Standards in an exam:1. Understand thoroughly: Familiarize yourself in-depth with various coding standards used in Extreme Programming.
2. Be specific: When asked about coding standards, give specific details about the standard including why and how it is used.
3. Examples: Use examples to illustrate how coding standards improve code quality.
4. Make Connections: Make connections between concepts, such as how coding standards facilitate team collaboration or promote code readability.
Exam Tips:
- Familiarize with popular coding standards used in different languages.
- Understand the reasons behind the rules of a coding standard.
- Practice coding by following a predetermined standard.
- Review past questions and sample answers about coding standards.
- Explain your answers, don't just state facts. Tell ‘why’ and ‘how’ while answering questions about coding standards.