Understanding Pair Programming
Pair programming is a practice in software development where two Developers work together on the same code. This approach encourages continuous peer review, collaboration, and higher code quality.
Exam Question
What is pair programming?
(choose the best answer)
A. Two programmers write code separately. A third programmer integrates the work.
B. A Developer and a tester work together to write and test code.
C. The Scrum Team is divided into several two-person sub-teams that consolidate work in a Scrum of Scrums.
D. Two Developers writing code together, providing constant peer review.
E. Managers doing performance reviews by comparing one programmer’s code to another’s.
Correct Answer
D. Two Developers writing code together, providing constant peer review.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. Two Developers writing code together, providing constant peer review:
Pair programming is a software development practice where two Developers work together at one workstation. One Developer writes the code, while the other reviews each line of code as it is written. The two Developers switch roles frequently. This practice helps to catch errors early, share knowledge, and improve the overall quality of the code being written.
Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate
A. Two programmers write code separately. A third programmer integrates the work:
This describes a collaborative process but is not pair programming. Pair programming specifically involves two Developers working together on the same piece of code at the same time.
B. A Developer and a tester work together to write and test code:
While collaboration between Developers and testers is important, pair programming refers specifically to two Developers working together on the code, not a Developer and a tester.
C. The Scrum Team is divided into several two-person sub-teams that consolidate work in a Scrum of Scrums:
This describes a coordination strategy, not pair programming. Pair programming focuses on two Developers working together on the same code, not dividing the team into sub-teams.
E. Managers doing performance reviews by comparing one programmer’s code to another’s:
This is related to performance evaluation and is not connected to the concept of pair programming.
Relevance to the PSD Exam
Understanding pair programming is crucial for the PSD exam as it highlights the benefits of collaboration, continuous feedback, and peer review in software development.
Key Takeaways
- Pair programming involves two Developers working together on the same code, enhancing collaboration and code quality.
- Continuous peer review helps catch errors early and improve the maintainability of the code.
Conclusion
Pair programming is a valuable practice in software development that promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing, and high code quality. By working together, Developers can continuously review and refine their code, leading to more robust and maintainable software. For more information on preparing for the PSD exam, visit our Professional Scrum Developer PSD™ Exam Prep.
