The Real Reason Behind Comments in Computer Programming

In the context of computer files and programming scripts, comments are specially marked lines of text that are not meant to be interpreted by programs as markup or instructions even though all the surrounding syntax is expected to be executed. The purpose of including comments is normally to inform human readers looking directly at the files what certain stretches of code are supposed to represent. Comments are often inserted by programmers in between lines of the text comprising the mechanical structure of their projects to label sections and help themselves remember the functions of their own previously written code. This orientation for the reader is useful not just for the author but also for other authors who would either continue working on the code or find use for having the code explained in prose so that similar syntax can be implemented in other projects.

There is technically nothing stopping any author from typing anything they want in the comments section of a program file, which often results in authors regularly slipping humorous or self-referential messages into their code. The idea that countless users will never be aware that their machines might technically be overlooking hidden jokes while executing programs is sometimes seen as endearing. Web comments do not even have any discernible effect on SEO, meaning that it is not harmful for websites like the one for the Nike shoe brand to include commented-out strings of text in their robots.txt files that, for example, can be arranged as ASCII-format images.

Since it is easy for educated readers to open up these publicly presented files and read commented-out code, it is important for any author not to insert anything humiliating or legally problematic in their comments. Some published products can gain unwanted notoriety if objectionable material is found lurking within their code, resulting in damage to the author's career. On the other hand, well-considered inclusion of witty comments amongst otherwise stodgy syntax can add a humanizing element that may resonate with the particular readers who may happen to come across it. This engagement can possibly draw positive attention to the author. For more information click here https://i.redd.it/k3mz8o7qz6m61.png.