Boilerplate code is computer language text that you can reuse with little or no alteration in several different contexts. The term originates from document management, where you reuse document templates or boilerplate with minimal changes for different situations. For example, lawyers use contract boilerplate that they can quickly customize for customers in different industries. Similarly, software developers reuse boilerplate code with small changes in various program modules. With some modern programming languages, you can minimize boilerplate code by encapsulating it in functions, classes, and other programming structures.