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If you have a procedure with 10 parameters, you probably…

“If you have a procedure with 10 parameters, you probably missed some.” quote by Alan Perlis
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“If you have a procedure with 10 parameters, you probably missed some.”

Alan Perlis

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Having a function with many parameters often indicates a design flaw; simpler interfaces are preferable.

In simple terms: Too many parameters hint at poor design.

Key Takeaway

Simplify function interfaces.

Themes

software design complexity usability

Mood

analytical practical

Type

technical advisory

When to use this quote

  • coding projects
  • team code reviews
  • system architecture
  • library development

Key Concepts

API design refactoring

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you reduce parameter count?
  • When is a complex interface justified?
A Different Perspective

It may not apply to inherently complex systems.

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