Comments in C++

Comments in C++ are used to provide explanations or annotations within the code. They are ignored by the compiler and serve the purpose of making the code more readable for programmers. There are two types of comments in C++:

1. Single-Line Comments:

Single-line comments begin with // and continue until the end of the line. They are commonly used for short explanations or comments on a single line of code.

// This is a single-line comment

int x = 5;  // This is another single-line comment

2. Multi-Line Comments:

Multi-line comments start with /* and end with */. They can span multiple lines and are often used for longer explanations or comments that cover several lines of code.

/*
   This is a
   multi-line comment
*/

int y = 10;  /* Another example
                of a multi-line comment */

Usage Tips:

1. Explanatory Comments:
   • Use comments to explain complex algorithms, non-trivial code sections, or any part of the code that might be unclear to someone reading it for the first time.
2. Documentation Comments:
   • For functions and classes, consider using a documentation style that provides information about parameters, return values, and the purpose of the function or class.

   /**
    * @brief This function adds two integers.
    * @param a The first integer.
    * @param b The second integer.
    * @return The sum of a and b.
    */
   int add(int a, int b) {
       return a + b;
   }
   

3. Temporary Code Removal:
   • Use comments to temporarily remove code from execution without deleting it. This can be helpful for debugging or testing different code variations.

   // int result = someFunction();  // temporarily disabled
   

4. Code Annotations:
   • Use comments to annotate your code with TODOs, FIXMEs, or other markers to indicate tasks that need attention in the future.

   // TODO: Implement error handling here
   

Remember that while comments are beneficial for improving code readability, it's also important to write code that is self-explanatory and follows best practices in terms of naming conventions and code structure. Well-written code often requires fewer comments because the code itself is clear and easy to understand.