Variables and constants

Variables and constants

1. Identifiers

   • Variables and constants have names or identifiers.
     • Identifiers describe the data being stored.
       • Short identifiers are easier to spell correctly each time they are used.
       • Long identifiers can be used if they are more descriptive, e.g. firstName.

2. Assignment

   • Values are assigned in assignment statements using the = symbol.
     • The variable value can be changed as the program is running
   • Constants are assigned and used in calculations, they cannot be changed while the program is running.

3. Naming conventions

   • Variable and constant identifiers must be consistent throughout the program.
   • Camel case uses lower and upper case characters. ( FirstName or PricePerKilo )
   • In snake case the words are linked with an underscore. ( first_name or price_per_kilo )

4. Variables and constants are used to store values in algorithms and programs.