Garbage In, Garbage Out: Tech Lingo for Programmers
It can feel like developers speak their own language. But just like any language, tech jargon can be learned, and beginning programmers can speak like a natural. Not only does that help junior developers fit in, but also is critical for communicating effectively with team members, managers and stakeholders. So check out this list of tech lingo to get started.
Coding Terms
Code Smell
Because sometimes a mess is smelled before it’s seen, code smell refers to code that displays early signs of problems within a program.
Conditionals
Found within a code script, a conditional is a type of control structure read by the computer.
Control Flow
Control flow refers to the order in which statements are executed in a script. The computer is guided by script to execute statements automatically, which is why proper control flow is essential when coding.
Function
In tech lingo, a function is a unit of code that is defined by its role within a code structure.
Interpreter
A programming interpreter is a program that simplifies a high-level code into a simpler code so it can be easily read by the machine.
Loops
Like conditionals, a loop is also imbedded within a code script and is a type of control structure. Loops provide a list of instructions the system must follow to produce its function.
Nested
This term is used to describe a unit of code that is fully contained or categorized under a different unit.
Recursion
Recursion makes a problem easier to solve by breaking it down into smaller parts. According to Geeks for Geeks, recursion is a process that involves a function calling itself either directly or indirectly.
Sprints
This term refers to a programmer working on a specific collection of user stories that will eventually compile into a larger feature.
Processing Terms
Agile
Agile is a type of development method that allows program requirements to be changed over time and also enables cross-functioning teams.
Application Programming Interface (API)
According to Techterms, an API consists of commands, protocols, and functions used by programmers to interact with internal systems and simplify the completion of common coding tasks.
Create, Read, Update, Delete (CRUD)
This acronym is a helpful reminder of the order of operations that should be followed when programming a data repository.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
A GUI is software that allows a computer to easily communicate with its user through the use of scrolling menus, dialog boxes, and other graphic displays rather than text.
JavaScript Object Notation (JSON)
As an interchangeable language for JavaScript data, JSON is a must-know for programmers.
Model View Controller (MV)
The experts at Code Project define the MV Controller as a coded pattern used to prevent business logic from reaching the user. By doing so, the MV Controller manages the details of the user’s communication with the computer.
Operators
When using JavaScript, a program operator performs specific tasks on one, two or three operands to yield results.
Representational State Transfer (REST)
This acronym symbolizes the method of operating a system on resource representations.
Version Control (GIT)
This helpful tool records each change made to a code and stores it for future reference, allowing programmers to view previous versions of the code.
Best Practices Terms
Cowboy
A cowboy is someone who often uses hacks to accomplish tedious tasks quickly.
Don’t Repeat Yourself
Though this is something many nonprogrammers often say, it’s alternative tech lingo definition suggests not duplicating a code. Don’t Repeat Yourself is a principle in which every piece of knowledge inputted into a system must have its own purpose.
Garbage In, Garbage Out
This term refers to low-quality effort leading to low-quality results. If programmers apply bad input, they’ll receive bad output.
Hack
Not to be confused with the term for data breaches, this usage of the word refers to something thrown together without much thought for design or maintainability. Here, a hack is a shortcut to a result that should take thoughtful diligence.
Improve Your Programming Vocabulary with The Software Guild
Teaching yourself a new language can be difficult, but the expert instructors at The Software Guild can get you up to speed, fast. Choose from either .NET/C# or Java, two of the most popular languages in use today. Gain practical, relevant skills that will prepare you to be a junior developer, from instructors with years of industry experience. And since our focus is on real-world knowledge, you’ll graduate with a portfolio of projects to show to potential employers.
Originally published at www.thesoftwareguild.com on November 30, 2017.
