A Comprehensive Guide on Continuous Integration
What is Continuous Integration?
Continuous Integration (CI) is a development practice where developers integrate code into a shared repository frequently, preferably several times a day. Each integration is then verified by an automated build and test process to detect integration errors as quickly as possible.
Why is it Important?
CI brings multiple benefits: it increases code quality, reduces time to detect and fix bugs, avoids last-minute chaos at release dates, and more. In essence: it's a critical aspect of modern software development practices.
How it Works?
Developers commit changes to shared mainline several times a day. Each commit is built automatically, and if build and tests are successful, it is automatically deployed to testing or production environment.
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Continuous Integration
The exam may ask you to define CI, to describe its workings in detail, or to enumerate its benefits. To answer correctly: Understand the definition of CI. Be ready to explain the rationale behind CI and how the process works in detail, include concepts like automated build and tests, frequent commits. Understand its benefits: explain how CI increases code quality and reduces bugs and stresses. Use precise, concise language: Make sure you're getting your point across clearly and directly.