What is meant by Code hiding?
The term "code folding" refers to a feature in integrated development environments (IDEs) that allows specific sections of source code to be temporarily hidden. This feature is used to improve code readability and manageability by hiding non-relevant or already reviewed code blocks, enabling developers to focus more effectively on the current sections of the code.
Typical Software Functions in the Area of "Code Folding":
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Manual Folding:
- Users can manually fold and unfold specific code sections to enhance readability.
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Automatic Folding:
- The IDE automatically folds certain code sections based on predefined rules, such as comment blocks or imported libraries.
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Hierarchical Folding:
- The ability to fold and unfold entire code hierarchies, such as classes or methods.
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Context-Sensitive Folding:
- Code blocks are automatically folded or unfolded based on the current context or editing task.
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Symbolic Display:
- Folded code sections are replaced with symbols or brief descriptions, providing developers with an overview of the hidden content.
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Mark and Fold:
- Users can highlight specific sections and fold them, which is particularly useful for handling long code blocks.