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“Good code is its own best documentation. As you're about to add a comment, ask yourself, "How can I improve the code so that this comment isn't needed?" Improve the code and then document it to make it even clearer.” quote by Steve McConnell
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“Good code is its own best documentation. As you're about to add a comment, ask yourself, "How can I improve the code so that this comment isn't needed?" Improve the code and then document it to make it even clearer.”

Steve McConnell

About This Quote

Source Book: Code Complete, Steve McConnell, 1993

Code should be clear enough that comments are unnecessary; clarity reduces reliance on external explanations.

In simple terms: Write clear code, not just comments.

Key Takeaway

Make code self‑explanatory before adding comments.

Themes

software engineering clarity documentation best practices

Mood

focused analytical

Type

advice instructional

When to use this quote

  • code reviews
  • pair programming
  • maintenance
  • onboarding

Key Concepts

clean code self‑documenting code refactoring

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you simplify this function?
  • When is a comment truly essential?
A Different Perspective

Complex logic may still need brief notes for future readers.

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