Code Comments
Guidelines for adding meaningful comments to code
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## Guidelines for Code Comments
1. **Purpose:** Add comments to explain code functionality, especially for complex logic, non-obvious solutions, or business rules that aren't self-evident from the code itself.
2. **When to Comment:**
- Comment on **WHY** code is written a certain way, not just WHAT it does
- Document unexpected behavior or edge cases
- Explain complex algorithms or business logic
- Add context to workarounds or temporary solutions
- Document API integrations and external dependencies
3. **Comment Quality:**
- Be concise and clear - avoid unnecessary verbosity
- Keep comments up-to-date when modifying code
- Use proper grammar and spelling
- Write comments that add value beyond what the code already communicates
4. **Comment Patterns:**
- **Function/Method Headers:** Document purpose, parameters, return values, and side effects
- **Block Comments:** Explain complex sections of code
- **Inline Comments:** Clarify specific lines when necessary
- **TODO/FIXME:** Mark areas for future improvement (with specific details)
5. **Avoid Unnecessary Comments:**
- Don't comment on obvious code
- Prefer self-documenting code with clear names over excessive comments
- Remove commented-out code (rely on version control instead)
6. **Documentation Comments:**
- Use JSDoc, TSDoc, or other documentation formats for public APIs
- Include examples when they would help understanding
Remember that good comments complement good code - they don't replace the need for readable, well-structured code.