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Code Quote by Tom Van Vleck

“Real programmers don't comment their code. If it was hard to write, it should be hard to understand.” quote by Tom Van Vleck
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“Real programmers don't comment their code. If it was hard to write, it should be hard to understand.”

Tom Van Vleck

About This Quote

Source Book: The Art of Programming, 1995

True programmers write code so clear that understanding it is intentionally challenging, reflecting pride in complexity.

In simple terms: Programmers avoid comments, making code hard to read.

Key Takeaway

Write clear, maintainable code.

Themes

programming culture code readability pride complexity

Mood

critical educational

Type

technical advice

When to use this quote

  • team projects
  • open source contributions
  • code reviews

Key Concepts

software engineering ethics knowledge sharing

Questions to Reflect On

  • Why comment code?
  • How does clarity affect teamwork?
A Different Perspective

Complex code hinders collaboration and future maintenance.

3.6 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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