The Imperative of Informed Coding

Simply copying and pasting code without understanding its implications or how it fits into the broader context of your project can lead to problems down the line. When coding, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of the technologies and tools you're using, as well as the specific requirements and constraints of your project. And sometimes you might not have the luxury to fully understand every piece of code before moving on, it's still important to strive for a balance between expediency and comprehension.

If it works, don't touch it.

Imagine a well-oiled machine operating flawlessly, executing tasks precisely as intended. This represents the pinnacle of a programmer's achievement – the moment when code performs its function without error or interruption. While the impulse to refine and optimize may be strong, experienced developers understand the risk of unnecessary intervention.

It advises developers to exercise restraint when confronted with functional code. Altering code that already operates as desired introduces the potential for unintended consequences. A seemingly innocuous modification could trigger a cascade of bugs, disrupting the delicate balance achieved through careful coding. Therefore, if a piece of code functions as intended, it is best left undisturbed, a testament to its efficacy and the developer's skill.

However, it's essential to note that this principle doesn't absolve developers from vigilance. Even when code appears to work perfectly, it's prudent to have a comprehensive suite of tests in place to validate its behavior under various conditions. These tests serve as a safety net, providing assurance that changes made in the future won't inadvertently introduce regressions. Therefore, while "If it works, don't touch it" holds true, developers must exercise caution and ensure that robust testing mechanisms are in place before making any modifications.

Programming is 10% writing code and 90% understanding why it's not working.

Writing code is merely the beginning of the software development journey. The real challenge lies in diagnosing and rectifying issues when code fails to behave as expected. Debugging, the process of identifying and resolving errors, consumes the majority of a developer's time and effort.

This one underscores the importance of debugging skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of software systems. A program plagued by bugs is not a sign of incompetence but an opportunity for growth and mastery. Each bug uncovered presents a puzzle to be solved, an invitation to delve deeper into the intricacies of code and emerge with greater insight.

To adhere to this, developers must cultivate patience, persistence, and a relentless pursuit of understanding. Debugging demands not only technical expertise but also creativity and intuition. Sometimes, the solution to a stubborn bug lies not in the code itself but in the developer's willingness to question assumptions and explore alternative approaches.