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About this quote

What does it mean?
He admits he dislikes indentation because it is usually correct, implying it’s overused.
In plain terms
He dislikes indentation since it often indicates correct code.
What can you take from it?
Good code can be recognized without heavy indentation.

Where it applies

  • code reviews
  • formatting discussions

Putting it to work

  • focus on readability over visual style

Questions to consider

  • When is indentation truly helpful?
  • Can code be clear without it?

Another view

Indentation is a widely accepted best practice for readability.

More from Larry Wall

  1. I don't believe I've ever cuddled my elses.

    Permalink to quote #195
  2. I'd make people say 'use Fork;' if I thought I could get away with it.

    Permalink to quote #197
  3. There's often more than one correct thing. There's often more than one right thing. There's often more than one obvious thing.

    Permalink to quote #194

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