Question

REM is non-executable statement and is short for ______. (1) REMAT (2) REMSTATE (3) REMARKDATA (4) REMARK

Short answer

Answer: REMARK

Step-by-step solution

Understand the purpose of REM

In programming languages, REM is a type of statement that is not executed by the computer. Instead, it serves as a comment or remark in the code to provide information or clarification to the programmer.

Evaluate the given options

Assess the four given options and determine which one correctly defines REM: 1. REMAT - This option does not appear to represent a meaningful term related to programming comments. 2. REMSTATE - This option also does not seem to represent any meaningful term related to programming comments. 3. REMARKDATA - Although this option consists of terms "REMARK" and "DATA", it does not represent the correct acronym for "REM". 4. REMARK - This option correctly defines the acronym "REM" because "REMARK" is a term used to describe a comment or note in a programming code that is not executed.

Select the correct answer

The correct meaning of "REM" is: (4) REMARK

Key concepts

Programming Comments

Programming comments are an essential part of writing clean and understandable code. Think of comments as annotations in the margins of a textbook—they're notes to yourself and to others who read your code, explaining what is happening at a particular point. In many programming languages, comments are created by using special symbols or keywords, such as // in languages like Java and C++, or # in Python.

In the context of the exercise, REM is a command found in BASIC and other older languages, where it stands for 'REMARK'. By placing REM before text in your code, you effectively turn that text into a comment. This means it will be ignored by the compiler or interpreter and does not affect the program's execution. Use comments to:

• Explain complex sections of code.
• Mark areas that need improvement or revision.
• Describe the purpose of functions and procedures.
• Provide attribution for code borrowed from other sources.

Remember, while comments are invaluable for clarification, over-commenting or stating the obvious can clutter your code. Aim for a balance and ensure your comments add real value.

Non-executable Statements

Non-executable statements in programming are those parts of the code that the computer's processor does not execute. These are distinct from 'executable' statements that directly translate into actions performed by the computer. Non-executable statements can include not only comments but also compiler directives and documentation sections.

In the solution steps, REM is identified as a non-executable statement. It’s like having a conversation within the code that the computer knows to tune out while focusing on the actual commands. This is beneficial for several reasons:

• They provide a way to document the code directly alongside the source without the need for external documentation.
• They're a vital tool for developers collaborating on a project to communicate their intent or to leave instructions.
• They can be used to temporarily disable code, a practice known as 'commenting out'. This can be useful for debugging purposes or when trying alternative approaches.

Ensuring that non-executable statements are used effectively is a key part of good coding practice.

Code Clarification

Code clarification is the practice of making source code easier to understand for humans, without altering the functionality of that code. Clarification can be achieved through multiple methods, such as clear and descriptive variable names, well-organized code structure, and thorough commenting, as highlighted with the use of REM as a comment.

As seen in the exercise, REM is used for adding remarks, which directly contribute to code clarification. Clarified code benefits everyone who interacts with it—be it the original author returning to the code after a long time or a new team member who needs to understand and contribute quickly.

• It improves maintainability, as it's easier to update and fix code that's clear and well-explained.
• It fosters better collaboration, as team members can understand and build upon each other's work with ease.
• It reduces the learning curve for new programming team members who need to get up to speed.

Code clarity is just as important as the correctness of your code. Invest time in making sure your code is as understandable as possible through meaningful comments and clear structure.