Coding principles are a set of rules and guidelines that software developers utilize to develop software. The software developers use the principles to make their code readable, efficient, maintainable, and scalable.

The development of software is essential in a time where technology is the driving force behind modern society.

Many organizations have set their coding guidelines to improve software quality and align practices. The European coding principles are among the most significant coding guidelines in Europe today.

These principles aim to enhance the quality of software, software maintainability, and software scalability.

1. Develop Reusable Code

The first guideline is to develop reusable code. The principle is to create code that can be used in different projects and applications. This principle is essential because it saves time, effort and enhances the quality of the software.

You can achieve this by developing modular code, libraries, and frameworks that can be used in other projects.

2. Code must be Readable

The second guideline is that code must be readable. Readable code is code that can easily be understood by other developers.

It is essential to write code that is easy to understand because it helps developers identify the bugs in the code and fix them quickly. The simpler the code, the better it is for the software.

3. Maintain a Consistent Coding Style

The third guideline is to maintain a consistent coding style. Consistent coding style ensures that software development teams work together efficiently.

A consistent coding style is essential in making the code readable, leading to better quality code in the long run. A style guide is essential in ensuring code consistency.

4. Use Descriptive Identifiers

The fourth guideline is to use descriptive identifiers for variables, functions, and classes. Descriptive identifiers make it easier for developers to understand the purpose of the code.

Using descriptive identifiers makes the code readable, allowing other developers to identify the function of the code quickly.

5. Choose Appropriate Data Structures

The fifth guideline is to choose appropriate data structures. Choosing the right data structure ensures efficient programmatic functions and memory management.

Before selecting a data structure, developers must evaluate the data type and the operations that they plan to perform on the data.

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6. Optimize Your Code

The sixth guideline is to optimize your code. Optimization is a critical step in software development. Developers must identify and remove ineffective code that may degrade the software’s performance.

Efficient software improves user satisfaction and reduces maintenance costs in the long run.

7. Test Your Code

The seventh guideline is to test your code. Testing your code is essential in improving the quality of the software. Developers must ensure that their code is fully functional by testing it thoroughly before deploying it.

Testing verifies that the software functions as expected and validates software specifications.

8. Use Leading-Edge Technologies

The eighth guideline is to utilize leading-edge technologies. Developing software using the latest technologies ensures that the software is compatible with the latest platforms with current industry standards.

Using the latest technologies also enhances the performance and functionality of the software.

9. Follow Security Standards

The ninth guideline is to follow recommended security standards. Security standards ensure the software’s security from unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security issues.

Developers must take the necessary precautions to secure software before deploying it.

10. Practice Code Refactoring

The tenth guideline is to practice code refactoring. Code refactoring is a process of rewriting existing code to improve its readability or functionality.

The goal of code refactoring is to make the code better to read, maintain and extend without changing its functionality.

11. Develop Scalable Code

The eleventh guideline is to develop scalable code. Scalable code is code that can accommodate future changes, features, and improvements. Scalable code can adapt to increased traffic, add more features, and handle more data.

Developers must ensure that the code they write can accommodate future improvements to the software.

12. Refrain from Using GOTO Statements

The twelfth guideline is to avoid using GOTO statements. The GOTO statements direct the program flow to a different part of the code. Using the GOTO statements might lead to unexpected results.

Programmers must use control structures such as loops or case statements instead of using GOTO statements.