Code reviews are essential, and here's how I review code written in an unfamiliar language or codebase.

Code reviews can be intimidating, especially when the language feels like you’re reading a foreign script. But that's where the growth lies—getting comfortable with discomfort. Here’s how I approach reviewing code when both the language and the codebase are unfamiliar.

First, I don’t try to be the hero who "gets" everything at once. I start with curiosity, not judgment. Instead of assuming I should know it all, I ask: Why did the developer solve it this way? What’s the intent behind this structure?

I break down the process into layers:

1/ Read for logic: I focus on understanding the logic first. Even in an unfamiliar language, loops, conditionals, and functions have a universal purpose. I zoom out and try to capture the flow of data. What’s the input, what’s being manipulated, and where does it lead?

2/ Compare patterns: Code often follows common patterns across languages. Whether it’s error handling, data validation, or resource management, these patterns pop up everywhere. Recognizing these familiar structures can bridge the gap, allowing me to assess whether it’s efficient or convoluted.

3/ Leverage comments and documentation: The code tells a story, but sometimes it’s missing a few pages. That’s where comments and documentation come in. If they’re well-written, they serve as guideposts in unfamiliar terrain. If not, I make a note—both as feedback and for my own understanding.

4/ Look for edge cases: Regardless of the language, edge cases are a universal concern. I look for places where the code might falter. Are null inputs handled? Is there a potential for memory leaks? These questions are language-agnostic and help frame my review in practical terms.

5/ Keep the conversation open: It’s not about being right, it’s about collaborating. If I’m unsure of something, I ask the developer. Sometimes what seems inefficient at first glance has a deeper reason. Other times, it’s simply a case of someone not knowing a better way. Either way, an open dialogue leads to better code for everyone.

Code reviews aren’t just about finding flaws—they’re about growing together, learning from each other, and building better systems.

And in the process, you become a more versatile developer, fluent in the logic of any language.