What are coding mistakes called?

In coding, mistakes or errors are commonly referred to as bugs. However, depending on the nature of the mistake, they can be categorized in different ways:

Types of Coding Mistakes:

1. Syntax Errors:

   • Occur when the code violates the rules or grammar of the programming language. These are typically caught by the compiler or interpreter before the code is executed.
   • Example: Forgetting a semicolon in languages like Java or missing parentheses in Python.

2. Logical Errors:

   • These occur when the code runs without crashing but produces incorrect results due to flaws in the logic or algorithm. Logical errors can be harder to identify because the program executes but gives unintended outcomes.
   • Example: Using > instead of < in a loop condition.

3. Runtime Errors:

   • These errors occur while the program is running, often because the program attempts an illegal operation (e.g., dividing by zero, accessing a null object).
   • Example: Trying to access an element in a list using an invalid index.

4. Semantic Errors:

   • These occur when the syntax of the program is correct, but the program does not do what the programmer intended. The program's meaning (semantics) is incorrect.
   • Example: Swapping two variables incorrectly while trying to reverse an array.

5. Off-by-One Errors (OBOE):

   • A common logical error, particularly in loops, where the code overshoots or undershoots the intended boundary by one unit.
   • Example: Iterating one time too few or too many in a loop.

6. Race Conditions:

   • These occur in concurrent or multi-threaded programs when the program's outcome depends on the sequence or timing of uncontrollable events, like thread execution order.
   • Example: Two threads accessing and modifying shared data without proper synchronization, leading to inconsistent results.

Conclusion:

Coding mistakes are often called bugs, but the specific type of bug depends on the kind of error (syntax, logic, runtime, etc.). Identifying and fixing these mistakes is a key part of programming, often requiring tools like debuggers and careful testing.