What we can learn from programming memes for developers
Tags: webdev, beginners, programming, productivity
Published: 2023-08-14 20:29:25

During a debugging session, code review, or normal coding session a colleague would probably send a programming meme.
Programming memes have emerged as more than just a source of amusement for developers. They show the frustrations, triumphs, and universal experiences of coding in a way that resonates across the digital landscape. But, aside the jokes, can we actually learn something form them? We will delving into the shared realities they depict and the valuable lessons they can teach us about the art of software development.

##No documentation, yes problems. 

![Meme regarding the importance of writing down api documentation](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/sgxcs610bme4smi4kxny.png)

Undocumented code, especially APIs, can make the codebase difficult to read, maintain, and prone to varied interpretations. This is particularly true when you aim to extract content without possessing prior knowledge. To illustrate, envision yourself in an unfamiliar foreign city, lacking a map and data on your phone. Extend a courtesy to both your colleagues and your future self: **comment the code**

<br />

##Review, without losing the view


![A meme of code review](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/f2d4uhcc2m5pot3d4p24.png)

When collaborating within a team, your code is subject to scrutiny by a supervisor. Additionally, even if you're a junior developer, you might find yourself tasked with conducting code reviews. An effective code review goes beyond the surface; while well-written code adhering to conventions is essential, a more risky situation arises when **the code appears flawless but fails to meet the definition of done**. Such a scenario can be more problematic than code that may not strictly follow conventions but covers all cases, including error handling and less-expected paths. While spotting minor issues is straightforward, evaluating code's maintainability, stability, and scalability is a far harder.

<br />

##Git blame yourself

![A meme about blaming your code](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/iitrega56bfzy4an4ta2.png)

I like to use [GitLens](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=eamodio.gitlens) VScode extension because it keeps git blame at the ready, allowing me to easily connect with the developer responsible for a piece of code. It's amusing how often the responsible developer is myself 😅. Dealing with old code can be a dilemma, particularly if it appears unstable or outdated. Yet, we don't always have the luxury of time to refactor it. The key is to ensure we don't forget to bookmark it, go back later and fix it.

##I don't understand

![A meme about understanding code](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/ausv9mlqwv958n6wxlsb.png)

This is crucial. Understanding **why code works** is even more fundamental to comprehending why it doesn't. Being unaware can be incredibly risky. I believe that bridging this gap is one of the most significant steps from a junior to a senior level.

##Better than caffeine 


![A meme about coffee and deleting databases in production](https://dev-to-uploads.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/articles/jq7uf2kmo5q2qomq5s05.png)

This is my favorite meme, and it never fails to give a laugh when I share it with my colleagues. There isn't much to say about it, except the simple reminder: avoid doing something foolish, especially in production!

Most of the memes are taken from [r/ProgrammerHumor](https://www.reddit.com/r/ProgrammerHumor/) on Reddit.

Now it is your turn! Share your favourite programming memes and comment on them!