What is CL in code review?

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In the realm of code reviews, a CL, or Changelist, is a fundamental component that streamlines the review process. It serves as a comprehensive package of all the modifications a developer intends to introduce to the codebase. Understanding CLs is essential for efficient collaboration and maintaining high code quality within a team.

Definition of CL

A Changelist (CL) is a collection of related code changes that a developer submits for review. It typically includes additions, deletions, and modifications to the existing codebase, organized around a specific feature, bug fix, or improvement.

Purpose of CL

CLs help in organizing changes in a structured manner, making it easier for reviewers to assess the impact and quality of the modifications. By bundling related changes together, CLs ensure that the review process is focused and efficient.

Components of a CL

A well-prepared changelist usually consists of the following elements:

Description: A clear summary outlining what the CL aims to achieve.
Diff: The actual code changes, highlighting what has been added, removed, or altered.
Tests: Any new tests or updates to existing tests that verify the functionality of the changes.
Documentation: Updates to relevant documentation to reflect the new changes or features.

Best Practices for Creating CLs

Creating effective changelists can significantly enhance the efficiency of the code review process. Here are some best practices to follow:

Keep CLs Small and Focused: Smaller, well-defined CLs are easier to review and understand. Aim to address one issue or feature per CL.
Provide Clear Descriptions: Clearly articulate the purpose and scope of the CL to give reviewers the necessary context.
Include Relevant Tests: Ensure that any new code is accompanied by appropriate tests to verify its functionality and prevent regressions.
Follow Coding Standards: Adhere to the project's coding guidelines to maintain consistency and readability across the codebase.

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