Code Complete, 2nd Edition

Key Points

• Data initialization is prone to errors, so use the initialization techniques described in this chapter to avoid the problems caused by unexpected initial values.

• Minimize the scope of each variable. Keep references to a variable close together. Keep it local to a routine or class. Avoid global data.

• Keep statements that work with the same variables as close together as possible.

• Early binding tends to limit flexibility but minimize complexity. Late binding tends to increase flexibility but at the price of increased complexity.

• Use each variable for one and only one purpose.