Comment by argiopetech
2 years ago
I contend understanding the semantics of code is harder than writing the syntax. Reading the syntax without thinking deeply (to the level needed to write it, or deeper) seldom helps you realize unexpected corner cases. This is why stochastic testing is so valuable.
ad.: Code review takes less time than writing code for the same reason reading a book takes less time than writing one. Distillation and organization of ideas requires expertise gained through experience and long thought. Reading a book requires reading ability.
Understanding a book (and the intricacies underlying it) takes effort on the order of the original writing, but most people don't seek that level of understanding. The same is true of code.
No comments yet
Contribute on Hacker News ↗