Why do programmers fail to document their code?

Software code, often written in Java, C++, or any other language, is challenging to document in part because technical writers often aren’t already fluent in the programming language. Code is often arranged in non-linear order, so you can’t simply proceed line-by-line through it. …

What is the purpose of software documentation?

Software documentation is written text or illustration that accompanies computer software or is embedded in the source code. The documentation either explains how the software operates or how to use it, and may mean different things to people in different roles.

Should developers write documentation?

Developers should write documentation because it makes it easier for both you and your coworkers to use your code. Writing documentation makes you a more valuable developer and will help your career. Documenting your code makes you a better developer and helps you design better systems.

Why do developers hate documents?

Hubris. Hubris can lead many developers to believe in not commenting or documenting their work. Even with a great capacity to write documentation, many programmers opt not to write documentation at all to show their skills and deny their responsibilities for others to understand their code.

Why is writing documentation so hard?

There are many reasons we can get documentation that isn’t fit for purpose. Project deadlines, developer turnover, or merely leaving documentation until it’s too late all lead to poor documentation. On top of this, writing documentation can be hard because developers typically want to be coding, not copywriting.

Why is technical documentation important?

Great technical documentation guides your audience and empowers them to use your product, without frustration and difficulties! It helps the intended audience understand the processes and solve difficulties when using your product.

Why documentation is important in an organization?

By documenting your processes, you ensure efficiency, consistency, and peace of mind for anyone involved. This kind of standardization between processes ensures everyone in your organization is working the same way towards the same outcome.

Who writes technical documentation?

Technical documentation is usually either written by a subject matter expert (i.e. someone who knows what they’re talking about), or a technical writer who’s been trained to translate complicated product knowledge into content that’s more easily understood by the end users.

Do software engineers write documentation?

Most do. Most prefer not to. Some do it well. The best documentation is a team effort between a tech writer and the developer.

What is the best way to read software documentation?

The best way to read software documentation, in order of preference. Don’t. Fiddle with the software to see if you can figure out how it works. If so, you’re done! Use a guided tour. Many complex software packages have a ‘tour’ mode that animates using the software so you can learn where the menus and main features are.

Why are video tutorials on YouTube so boring?

Many of the people who make those tutorials are afraid to show their faces. So, they often have an intro where they explain something for a couple of minutes while doing absolutely nothing. This is incredibly boring. Because it means that you are staring at a blank screen for the first couple of minutes while absolutely nothing happens.

Why are C++ sample programs so boring?

They’re boring because the sample program that has been chosen for you to write or follow must be fairly small and simple, and designed to teach basic programming concepts. Under these constraints, there is little room for creativity and cool features. As a beginner, you are nowhere near ready to tackle anything truly meaty or interesting.

Are digital devices making reading a hard sell?

Since most of the class didn’t know what a “frigate” was, it proved a hard sell. March is National Reading Month. These days, reading is often no easier a sell, and a major culprit standing in the way is the allure of digital devices.