When you think of code review, do you view it as a crucial part of the code you deliver? If not, keep reading — this post is for you.
I recently discussed this topic with friends, and we realized how often code reviews are undervalued. When starting a task, it's essential to plan for the time you'll need for review. Why? Because we often rush to finish the code and eagerly wait for approval, forgetting that code review is a pivotal moment in the development process. It’s a chance for others to contribute insights that can elevate your work.
It’s important to understand that code review isn't about nitpicking over arbitrary preferences, whitespace, or chosen design patterns. It’s about highlighting real issues—like duplicated logic, security vulnerabilities, or opportunities to refactor messy code. These are the comments that truly enhance the quality of the code. Beyond criticism, code reviews are a space for sharing knowledge:
"Hey, great library! How did you find it?"
"I like how you approached this problem. Could you explain it to me? "
However, feedback can sometimes be phrased poorly, like
"Why did you use this? I would’ve done it differently,"
"This isn’t good; you should have done it another way."
Remember, these comments can feel dismissive and discourage your peers from sharing their ideas.
As developers, we must recognize that our differences—backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives—make us unique. A seemingly simple comment to you might demotivate someone else. Being a good developer is about more than just technical skills; it’s about communication, empathy, and collaboration.
In code reviews, adopt a team-first mindset. Be empathetic while giving feedback, and be open to learning from each other. Remember, bugs are never one person’s fault, and successes are shared. As a reviewer, you are equally responsible for the code as the author, and code reviews should never feel like personal attacks.
Focus on what matters most, and be willing to accept code that meets the necessary standards, even if it’s not perfect. Code quality improves through continuous learning, mentorship, and collaboration—not just through review alone.
A code review it’s vital for both reviewers and authors to consider the psychological impact of feedback. The best code reviews foster learning and spark innovative ideas by embracing diverse perspectives.
More about this topic you can find here and at this awesome article
Top comments (2)
Very insightful. Just because someone else's code is not the way I would do it, doesn't mean it's wrong.
Thanks Martin. I agree with you, and that is one of the beauty of diversity :)