Basics
Node.js Comments
Node.js Comment Syntax
Node.js comments use // and /* */ supporting JSDoc for documentation.
Understanding Comments in Node.js
Comments are an essential part of any programming language, and Node.js is no exception. They help developers understand code, provide explanations, and document functionality. Node.js supports single-line, multi-line comments, and JSDoc for documentation purposes.
Single-line Comments
In Node.js, single-line comments are created using two forward slashes //
. Everything after these slashes in that line is considered a comment and is ignored by the JavaScript engine.
Multi-line Comments
For longer explanations or to comment out blocks of code, you can use multi-line comments. These comments start with /*
and end with */
.
Using JSDoc for Documentation
JSDoc is a popular way to document JavaScript code. It uses special comment syntax to describe the structure and behavior of the code, which can be processed by documentation generators to create HTML documentation.
When to Use Comments
Comments should be used to clarify complex logic, explain assumptions, and provide additional context for your code. However, avoid over-commenting; strive for self-explanatory code where possible.
- Clarify Complex Code: Use comments to explain intricate logic that may not be immediately obvious.
- Document Functions: Use JSDoc to document the purpose and usage of functions and modules.
- Provide Context: Explain why a certain approach was taken, especially if it deviates from typical practices.