Strike a common-sense balance on the number of common blocks. Group related variables together in separate common blocks, but minimize the total number of blocks. Save all common blocks, in the include file. Data Types Use Implicit none in each program unit, and explicitly declare all variables and parameters. Common variables and parameters should be declared in the relevant include file.
Compilation Use a makefile for routine compiling and linking.
Avoid embedding compiler directives in the code, unless an equivalent compiler option is not available. In that case, include comments describing its effect, the target machine and operating system, and the compiler. Before releasing a code modification, re-test it with the same level of optimization that will be used for the final production code. Coding Style Items in this section are fairly specific, and primarily impact the readability, and thus the maintainability, of the final product. Some flexibility for personal preference should be acceptable.